OFFSTONE JUNE EDITION 2024

58 Issue 4: What impact will it have on the learning of English? A significant question in EMI discussions is the level of English proficiency required. Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) refers to the language used for academic learning, including academic vocabulary and analytical skills. In contrast, Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS) involves non-academic language used for social interactions. Understanding these terms helps determine the appropriate language proficiency levels for students. Issue 5: What will be the basis for assessment – content or language learning? For EMI to be successful, assessment methods must be carefully planned. This includes considering the features of academic tasks, how students perform these tasks, and the linguistic demands involved. A thorough and thoughtful approach to assessment is essential. Closing In summary, EMI offers potential benefits, including improved English proficiency and career prospects. Successful EMI provides various forms of capital: disciplinary capital (related to specific fields, e.g., medicine), linguistic capital (advanced English knowledge), internationalization capital (global education), and economic capital (better job opportunities). However, successful implementation requires careful planning and collaboration. By addressing key challenges and ensuring equitable outcomes, EMI can be a valuable educational tool in Malaysia. BIBLIOGRAPHY Macaro, E., Curle, S., Pun, J., Jiangshan, A. & Dearden, J. (2018). A systematic review of English medium instruction in higher education. Language Teaching , 51(1), pp. 36 – 76. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0261444817000350 Nizam, F. (2023, August 23). Dr M: Use only English for Science and Maths. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/08/946373/dr-m-use-only-english-science- and-maths Richards, J.C. & Pun, J. (2022). Teaching and learning in English Medium Instruction: An introduction . Routledge. Smit, U. (2023). English-medium instruction (EMI), ELT Journal , 77(4), pp. 499–503, https://doi.org/10.1093/elt/ccad018