English Medium Instruction (EMI) Information
Overview
English Medium Instruction (EMI) is a rapidly expanding global phenomenon in academia, characterized by its use of English to convey academic content. This trend is accompanied by significant research, pedagogical discussions, and the formation of dedicated communities and organizations. One such prominent organization is ICLHE (Integrating Content and Language in Higher Education), along with the Journal of English Medium Instruction (JEMI). This page serves as a hub for the exchange of EMI-related information, developments, and resources.
Global Context and Developments
The EMI community is steadily establishing both local and international identities, fostering collaborations that span across disciplines and regions. The ICLHE organization exemplifies this growth by promoting exchange through conferences, symposia, webinars, newsletters, and publications.
Activities: Conferences, symposia, webinars, newsletters, book publications, and curated lists of scholarly resources.
ICLHE Organization:
Mission: Facilitate dialogue on content and language integration in higher education by providing platforms for sharing opinions, experiences, and research.
Community Members: Educators, linguists, policymakers, researchers, and representatives of academic and professional bodies.
Key Publications and Research Resources
Publisher: Springer. Available for download here.
Journal of English Medium Instruction (JEMI):
Focus: Provides research articles on teaching, learning, and assessment within EMI frameworks. Emphasizes a broad and interdisciplinary understanding of EMI.
Topics: Language policy, teacher preparedness, instructional forms, translanguaging, academic literacy, and more.
Notable Articles: The first issue includes pieces on “Language policy and planning for EMI in higher education” and “Teacher preparedness for EMI.”
Notable Book Resource:
Title: ROAD-MAPPING English Medium Education in the Internationalised University (2020) by Emma Dafouz and Ute Smit.
Publisher: Springer. Available for download here.
EMI in Israel
EMI has seen notable growth in Israel, particularly following the Council of Higher Education’s 2019 decree regarding English instruction in academic institutions. This expansion brings unique challenges and opportunities:
- Local Context: EMI implementation varies across institutions, influenced by local culture and educational policies.
- Challenges: Issues include organizational decision-making, support mechanisms, and understanding the advantages and drawbacks specific to Israel’s context.
- Community of Practice: H-INT has established an EMI hub to facilitate exchange among practitioners and scholars, offering a platform for shared learning and problem-solving.
Learning and Development Resources
- MOOCs and Online Courses:
- Example: English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) MOOC offered by Ohio University as part of the Online Professional English Network (OPEN) Program. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by FHI 360.
Call to Action
- Engage with EMI: Join the international and local EMI discussions, share experiences, and contribute to the growing body of research and practice.
- ICLHE Membership: For those interested in contributing to and learning from the global EMI community, consider becoming a member of ICLHE.
This page aims to foster a dynamic and collaborative forum for advancing EMI understanding and practices, locally and globally.
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