Language is either prescriptive or descriptive. Could you explain the type of language used in Kenyan universities?

In Kenyan universities, the type of language used is typically prescriptive. This means that there are specific rules and guidelines that dictate how language should be used in academic settings. Students are expected to adhere to these rules in their writing and communication, and are often graded on their ability to do so. Additionally, academic staff and instructors also use prescriptive language when providing feedback and guidance to students. Overall, the use of prescriptive language in Kenyan universities helps to maintain clarity, consistency, and professionalism in academic discourse.

Descriptive language is used in Kenyan universities.

Descriptive language is based on observation and analysis of how language is actually used by people. It seeks to describe the common patterns and rules that govern language usage, without imposing any specific standards or norms. This approach acknowledges that language is constantly evolving and changing, and it seeks to reflect those changes in its descriptions.

In the context of Kenyan universities, descriptive language is reflected in the teaching and research of linguistics and language-related disciplines. Scholars in these fields observe and analyze the various ways in which language is used in Kenya, both in formal and informal contexts. They document the grammatical structures, vocabulary, and pronunciation patterns that are common in Kenyan English, Kiswahili, and other languages spoken in the country.

The use of descriptive language in Kenyan universities allows researchers and students to gain a better understanding of the actual practices of language use in the country. This knowledge is important for a variety of purposes, including language teaching, language planning, and sociolinguistic research.