Dutch or English as working language in higher education administration and meetings? Why not Dutch and English?

The increasing internationalization has recently brought attention to the role of the Dutch language in higher education administration and management. Sentiments have surfaced preferring a monolingual Dutch or English language approach, as the language barrier between locals and internationals has created tension. The CoRe research project suggests that both Dutch and English could simultaneously be the working languages of representative bodies, fitting into the bilingual language policy implemented at Utrecht University (2022). [Click here for the Dutch webpage / Klik hier voor de Nederlandse webpagina]

Receptive multilingualism as a multilingual solution

The language mode receptive multilingualism could be a solution. Other terms are Luistertaal or Lingua Receptiva. Dutch speakers can communicate (speak/write) in Dutch and non-Dutch speakers in English, under the condition that both can understand (read/listen) each other’s language. This way, both groups can participate in work and participatory body meetings. Thus, a bilingual language policy including Dutch and English creates an inclusive environment for everyone.

Getting to the CoRe: research on receptive multilingualism

The NWO-funded CoRe project (2023-2027) investigates receptive multilingualism in an academic context. The principal investigator is Prof. Dr. Rick de Graaff (r.degraaff@uu.nl).

Sub-project 1 analyzes the authentic multilingual discourse in meetings of participatory bodies. Sub-project 2 investigates which cognitive processes underlie receptive multilingualism focusing on Dutch language learners. Sub-project 3 aims to evaluate and improve the receptive Dutch course for meetings and administration.

Furthermore, the CoRe researchers organize the Workshop Multilingual Meetings and the language course Receptive Dutch for administration and meetings to offer insights and tools for multilingual academic contexts.