Foreign language education of tour guides in Italy. Language diversity and linguistic tolerance in foreign language users.

Abstract

This thesis analyses both linguistic competence in all its facets – specifically, microlinguistic competence – and foreign language skills including all the aspects that language use for professional purposes and in specific contexts implies. A particular focus will be addressed to language skills of expertise in art heritage contexts in Italy – specifically tour guides - given the importance of the tourism sector in our country. Questionnaires concerning the linguistic perception by users of tour guides’ services - provided to tour guides who work in the most relevant art heritage towns in Italy - will help to better understand the issue by the point of view and personal experience of professionals whose role is so relevant from such a perspective. Data collected will be the basis for a reflection and a proposal of foreign language training courses that could be offered to tour guides – as well as to prospective ones - by focusing on foreign language competence with a comprehensive approach. By receiving proper input by means of training courses and regular refreshing training ones, tour guides will be more likely to develop all the linguistic and extralinguistic skills that can make their services more professional, effective and appreciated by their users.