Today, like it or not, English is the language of globalization, international communication, commerce and trade, the media and pop culture, and this affects motivations for learning it. English is no longer viewed as the property of the English-speaking world but is an international commodity sometimes referred to as World English or English as an International Language (EIL). The cultural values of Britain and the US are often seen as irrelevant to language teaching, except in situations where the learner has a pragmatic need for such information. The language teacher need no longer be an expert on British and American culture and a literature specialist as well. English is still promoted as a tool that will assist with educational and economic advancement but is viewed in many parts of the world as one that can be acquired without any of the cultural trappings that go with it. Proficiency in English is needed for employees to advance in international companies and improve their technical knowledge and skills. It provides a foundation for what has been called "process skills"—those problem-solving and critical thinking skills that are needed to cope with the rapidly changing environment of the workplace, one where English is playing an increasingly important role.