Perspective! ENGLISH AS MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION

MELANIE D. HERNANDEZ

As an educational paradigm, EMI is currently experiencing a boom throughout the world in universities, secondary schools, and even primary schools; nevertheless, the ramifications of this expanding trend are yet largely unexplored. Top-down policies are being used more often to implement EMI, sometimes with little thought given to the potential educational benefits of second language acquisition for the millions of kids who will be impacted. By investigating the effects of EMI on language learning, content learning, teaching delivery, educational quality, access disparities, language flexibility and hybridity, the competencies required to be a successful EMI teacher, and other multifaceted aspects of EMI, this research group hopes to close this gap. English is becoming more and more important as it is the strongest language used by people worldwide. In addition to being a language that people need to learn for the purposes of globalization and internationalization, English is also a language that is important in many other fields, particularly in the teaching of social studies, science, and mathematics from elementary school through university. It is irrefutable that English is one of the crucial languages used in the teaching and learning process. The most extensively spoken language in the world, English is acknowledged as a worldwide language for technology, science, and business. As a result, studying English can give learners useful abilities that will benefit them in their future employment. However, many students may not be natural English speakers, which might hinder their ability to comprehend the subject matter and put non-native speakers at a disadvantage. Also, being able to communicate in English should not be the sole need for academic achievement. When training is provided solely in English, students who lack proficiency in the language may possess other important abilities and information that are disregarded. English, as a language, gives learners access to opportunities throughout the globe and gives them the tools they need to flourish in the modern world. Students who embrace English will be more equipped to handle the possibilities and difficulties that lie ahead. Early English instruction will help learners compete globally and be more equipped for the workforce. In the end, the situation and the requirements of the learners will determine whether or not English is used as a medium of teaching in schools. It is critical to weigh the possible advantages and disadvantages and guarantee that every student, regardless of linguistic background, has an equal chance of success.

-oOoThe author is SST II at Arayat National High School