The paper titled "Challenges of Using English Medium Instruction (EMI) in Teaching and Learning of University Scientific Disciplines: Student Voice" by Abdulwahid Qasem Al Zumor focuses on the challenges faced by Saudi students in comprehending and engaging with scientific content taught in English. The primary research question explores the impact of EMI on students' academic performance, communication, and overall educational experience.
The purpose of the study is to identify the specific challenges that students encounter due to the use of English as the medium of instruction in scientific disciplines at King Khalid University. The study aims to assess students' perceptions of lecture comprehension, communication barriers, assessment difficulties, and the psychological effects of studying in English.
The methodology involved a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses. The study surveyed 264 Saudi students enrolled in Computer Science, Engineering, and Medicine using a four-point Likert scale questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS for quantitative analysis and content analysis for qualitative insights.
Key findings indicate that the use of EMI has a significantly negative impact on students' comprehension of scientific content, with many students attributing their difficulties to insufficient English proficiency. The study also reveals that EMI contributes to students' anxiety, frustration, and poor academic performance, as they struggle to understand lectures and communicate effectively in English. Furthermore, students expressed a preference for receiving instruction in Arabic, which they believe would lead to better educational outcomes.
The study concludes that EMI poses substantial challenges for students in Saudi Arabia, particularly due to their limited English proficiency. The findings suggest the need for a reconsideration of language policies in higher education, advocating for a bilingual approach that incorporates both Arabic and English to enhance students' comprehension and academic success. The study underscores the importance of providing robust English language education in the preparatory years to better equip students for EMI in scientific disciplines.