English as a Medium of Instruction for Academics (FutureLearn)

Equip yourself to teach in international contexts by increasing your English language skills and intercultural knowledge. As universities work to become globally competitive courses taught in English are expanding. Those working in Higher Education are often thrown into producing academic work in English – either as teachers or researchers – without training in English language or intercultural skills.

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This course aims to remedy that, giving you a thorough introduction to English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI). You’ll learn about current EMI practice, and increase your confidence in using English, you’ll also work to grow your intercultural skills.

Join us and get prepared for the global classroom.

What topics will you cover?

- What is EMI?

- Different contexts of EMI use and different interpretations/meanings of the term including internationalisation ‘at home’

- Latest research findings and discussions about how ELF research has influenced EMI

- The role of language in effective intercultural communication

- Useful language for presenting ideas in English (e.g. signposting language)

- The use of the voice in effective intercultural communication, e.g. clarity, speed of delivery, intonation etc

- How far is accuracy in language important?

- Issues and challenges in lecturing for a multilingual and multicultural audience

- Facilitating and managing effective communication in small groups or seminars

- Recognising cultural differences in the international classroom and avoiding stereotypes

- Practical tips for addressing intercultural challenges

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

- Explore aspects of research and practice in contemporary EMI across the world

- Develop confidence in using English as a medium of instruction and become part of a community of practice in EMI

- Compare the different contexts of use for EMI and reflect upon how this understanding fits with your own teaching context

- Identify challenges in facilitating effective intercultural communication in a variety of contexts (lectures, seminars, writing etc) and explore how these may be addressed

- Explore the role of the voice in effective intercultural communication

- Identify appropriate language to facilitate effective communication in English and discuss the role of language in intercultural communication

- Investigate how to promote successful communication in educational interactions