The effects of globalization on English language learning: Perspectives from Senegal and the United States

Methodology 
In this study, the ethnomethodology theoretical framework was used to guide the research 
methods. Ethnomethodology, a social theory, is characterized by determining individual or group 
perspectives and meaning in order to make sense of a social situation (Westby, Burda, & Mehta, 
2003). Proponents of ethnomethodology believe that the experiences of members of society are 
open to scientific analysis and interpretation (Garfinkel, 1967). The major components of the 
ethnomethodology framework that are incorporated in this study are observations in a naturalistic 
environment and ethnographic interviews (Sangasubanam, 2013). In this comparative study, two 
research questions were examined by analyzing information from two countries, Senegal and the 

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EFFECTS OF GLOBALIZATION ON ENGLISH 
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United States. The first research question is how has globalization affected the perceptions of the 
process of English language learning in Senegal and the U.S. Midwest? The second question is 
what are the perceived functions of English as a nonnative language relating to accessibility of 
education? 
Several methods were used to answer these research questions. A literature review was 
employed and focused on literature regarding language use and function, public policies in 
Senegal, and the theory of ethnomethodology and globalization in general. Then ethnographic 
interviews were conducted at universities with English language learning students and faculty 
within relevant departments to determine perspectives of English use in Senegal, West Africa 
and the U.S. Midwest. In addition to the information gathered from the interviews, I conducted 
field observations in both countries and finally expanded on the literature review to analyze and 
verify the conclusions drawn from the interviews, observations, and literature review. The steps 
of this study are outlined by Sangasubanam (2011) in order to align with the ethnomethodology 
framework.