Exploring Linguistic Parallels: Prof. Evelyn Varron’s Visit to an English Phonology Class at Universitas Negeri Malang
Department of English
4 March 2024
Learning and Student
SDG 4
On February 29, 2024, the Department of English, Faculty of Letters, State University of Malang, had the privilege of hosting Prof. Evelyn Varron from the Philippine Normal University (PNU). Prof. Varron, an esteemed linguist, visited one of the English Phonology classes to elucidate the similarities between the Filipino language and Bahasa Indonesia. This event aimed to foster a deeper understanding of linguistic connections between the Philippines and Indonesia.
Figure 1. Prof. Evelyn Varron with English Language Literature students in English Phonology class
Accompanying Prof. Varron were Prof. Nunung Suryati and Rahmati Putri Yanuafari, M.Pd, enriching the discussion with their expertise in linguistics and language education. As the session commenced, students eagerly awaited insights into the linguistic parallels between these Southeast Asian languages.
Prof. Varron commenced the session by providing historical context, elucidating the diverse linguistic influences that have shaped both Filipino and Bahasa Indonesia. From Malay and Sanskrit to Spanish and English, these languages have evolved through centuries of cultural exchange, resulting in a rich tapestry of vocabulary and expressions.
The discussion then delved into phonological similarities, with Prof. Varron highlighting shared sounds and phonetic patterns between Filipino and Bahasa Indonesia. Students were intrigued to discover how certain words in Filipino, such as “kamay” (hand) and “tulay” (bridge), bear resemblance to their Indonesian counterparts, “tangan” and “jembatan.”
Additionally, Prof. Varron explored grammatical structures, illustrating commonalities in sentence construction and word order. Through comparative analysis, students gained a deeper understanding of how linguistic features are preserved and adapted across different cultural contexts.
The session also provided a platform for cultural exchange, as students shared their experiences encountering Filipino and Indonesian languages in real-life settings. Many expressed admiration for the linguistic richness shared between the two nations, fostering a sense of unity among students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Figure 2. Prof. Nunung Suryati and Rahmati Putri Yaniafari, S.Pd., M.Pd give a memento to Prof. Evelyn Varron.
Prof. Nunung Suryati and Rahmati Putri Yaniafari, S.Pd., M.Pd, contributed valuable insights from their respective fields, further enriching the discussion with their expertise in linguistics and language education.
As the session concluded, Prof. Varron encouraged students to continue exploring the linguistic connections between Filipino and Bahasa Indonesia beyond the classroom. She emphasized the significance of linguistic diversity in fostering mutual respect and understanding among nations.
Overall, Prof. Evelyn Varron’s visit to the English Phonology class at University of Malang proved to be an enlightening experience, deepening students’ appreciation for the linguistic heritage shared between the Philippines and Indonesia. Through academic collaboration and cultural exchange, such initiatives contribute to strengthening ties between nations and promoting cross-cultural understanding.