03 October 2016 – Osman Bedel –
English Medium Instruction (EMI) is a concept that has gained a lot of attention in recent years, particularly in the field of K12 education. In this blog post, we will explore what EMI is, who uses the concept, how it fits with intercultural dialogue, and what the future holds for EMI in K12 education.
What is EMI?
EMI refers to the use of the English language as the medium of instruction in schools and educational institutions where English is not the primary language. The aim of EMI is to provide students with the opportunity to learn subject content in English while also improving their language proficiency.
Who uses the concept?
EMI is used in various countries around the world, including Japan, Korea, China, and many European countries. In these countries, EMI is often seen as a way to prepare students for a globalized world where English is the dominant language of business, academia, and communication.
Fit with Intercultural Dialogue
EMI has the potential to promote intercultural dialogue by exposing students to different cultures and ways of thinking. Through EMI, students can learn about different cultures and perspectives, which can help them develop a better understanding and appreciation of diversity. However, it is important to note that EMI can also lead to the marginalization of non-native English speakers and their cultures, which could hinder intercultural dialogue.
What is in the future?
The future of EMI in K12 education is uncertain. While some countries have embraced EMI as a way to prepare students for a globalized world, others have resisted it, citing concerns about the impact of EMI on students’ language development and the marginalization of non-native English speakers.
Some experts predict that EMI will continue to grow in popularity as more countries aim to prepare their students for a globalized world. However, there is also a growing awareness of the potential negative impacts of EMI, which could lead to a more critical approach to the concept in the future.
To conclude, EMI is a concept that has gained a lot of attention in recent years, particularly in the field of K12 education. EMI provides students with the opportunity to learn subject content in English while also improving their language proficiency. While EMI has the potential to promote intercultural dialogue, it is important to be aware of the potential negative impacts of the concept. The future of EMI in K12 education is uncertain, but it will likely continue to be a topic of debate and discussion for educators and policymakers around the world.