What does the term "sink or swim" refer to in language education?

The term "sink or swim" in the context of language education refers to the method where students learn solely through English, encouraging them to immerse themselves in the language with less or no support from their native language. This approach posits that students will either adapt and learn the language effectively through constant exposure and necessity or struggle significantly without assistance. By being in an environment where English is the only medium of communication, students are pushed to utilize whatever skills and strategies they possess to acquire language proficiency.

This method can be polarizing; while some believe it fosters rapid language acquisition, it may also create challenges for learners who may need more structured support. Overall, it highlights a very immersive and demanding approach to language learning, aligning with the notion of total immersion into the target language.