Caracterización de un ambiente bilingüe de aprendizaje auténtico dirigido al desarrollo de la competencia lectoescritora en inglés y de la cultura organizacional en trabajadores técnicos de una empresa siderúrgica en Colombia

Abstract

Language learning occurs as a ubiquitous process in authentic bilingual learning environments that aim to meet the demands of the 21st century. The objective is to characterize this environment through a case study conducted at the facilities of a multinational steel company based in Colombia. To this end, an initial diagnosis was performed, followed by a review of related literature and components of the organizational culture. Data collection was carried out using four instruments that revealed perceptions regarding the importance of learning and using English in daily tasks, as well as the direct and indirect impacts on corporate processes. A qualitative thematic analysis resulted in four emerging categories: learning for life, literacy interaction with authentic materials, pedagogical components, and a critical stance towards the organizational ecosystem. It is evident that this environment lacks an English training process, and its current conditions are open to improvement. The leaders in the company have different perceptions compared to the workers, and the needs of lower-ranking employees are not being addressed by the management. However, all participants in the study acknowledge that English proficiency would enhance corporate outcomes. Data triangulation was conducted using a SWOT matrix, providing the necessary information to propose contributions aimed at improving the studied environment, with a focus on growth strategies, internal and external development, and sustainability.