Feb 23 • 09:05 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

Helena Metslang: When Soldier Skills and Language Learning Meet

Helena Metslang discusses the importance of integrating language learning into military training to enhance both the cohesion of the defense forces and the overall quality of service experience.

In her article, Helena Metslang emphasizes that the integration of language learning into military training is not just an option but a necessity for supporting the cohesion of Estonia's defense forces. She highlights the need to design language instruction in a way that enhances both military training and the quality of service experience for soldiers. Rather than questioning whether language training is essential, the focus should shift to developing methods that enable effective learning alongside tactical skills development.

Metslang reflects on the practical aspects of language learning in the military environment, noting how soldiers are often inundated with a barrage of technical instructions delivered in an informal vernacular. This, she argues, represents a unique language situation where young conscripts must quickly adapt to an intense and demanding linguistic environment, which is far from nurturing or selective. The direct application of language skills during training exercises further underscores the urgency and importance of effective communication in military operations.

The article serves as a call to action for military policymakers and educators to rethink their approaches to language instruction within the defense sector. By fostering a linguistically rich environment, the Estonian military can enhance operational effectiveness and contribute to a stronger sense of unity among service members. The implications are broad, suggesting that a focus on language has the potential to transform not just the educational experience but also the overall mission readiness of the military.

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