English-medium instruction (EMI) refers to teaching non-philological academic subjects through English in non-English-dominant settings. As EMI lecturers are predominantly speakers of English as a foreign language, concerns have been raised about their language preparedness for effective EMI. This study was conducted at the University of Rijeka, Croatia. The sample comprised 103 EMI lecturers from various academic disciplines, who completed a questionnaire. The study aimed to explore their attitudes and expectations regarding language requirements and support in EMI, as well as the language-related challenges they encounter. The data were analysed using Stata software. Although language prerequisites for English-medium teaching are typically not required, almost all respondents believe that they should be, preferably at the B2–C1 level, demonstrated through an English test, an interview and/or a trial lecture in English. Around half believe that they need to improve their English proficiency to a moderate or great extent. Lecturers report that pronunciation, grammar and speaking fluency pose the greatest challenges and have adverse effects on their self-confidence and capacity to demonstrate their expertise. Regarding language support, 71% say that they need it and 90.5% expect it to be provided, with a primary focus on speaking fluency, pronunciation and academic English. Based on the findings, we recommend implementing an explicit language policy that requires lecturers to undergo language assessment or provide proof of the required level of English proficiency. We also advocate complementing these prerequisites with targeted language support to enhance the quality of instruction and empower lecturers.

Authors:
Branka Drljača Margić, University of Rijeka, Croatia
Kornelija Čakarun, University of Rijeka, Croatia
Siniša Smiljanić, University of Rijeka, Croatia
Irena Vodopija-Krstanović, University of Rijeka, Croatia

About the Presenter(s)
Branka Drljača Margić is a Professor in the Department of English at the University of Rijeka, Croatia. Her principal area of research is English-medium instruction (EMI), and she is currently running an international EMI-focused research project.

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