Language interaction among international students in classes of English as medium of instruction at the UA

Abstract

The implementation of English as the medium of instruction (EMI) in Higher Education (HE) in its process of internationalisation entails new academic scenarios. This study analyses how interaction in this academic context occurs between local students and internationals in terms of frequency, among other aspects. Some variables such as provenance, type of accommodation, and level of English will be also explored to provide a better understanding of this phenomenon. Quantitative data was collected by means of two questionnaires designed specifically for these two groups of students. The analysis of a sample of more than 400 students from the different university centres enabled to draw relevant conclusions about the dynamics of interaction in EMI classes at the UA, as well as possible recommendations to promote linguistic, academic and cultural exchange within the classroom.