English Language Education in Three ASEAN Countries: Prospects of Harmonization for ASEAN Higher Education

Abstract

This paper deals with the role of English in promoting better socio-economic conditions in three ASEAN members: Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. Being former colonies of the West, these three countries have been the recipient of the gains there is in the English language: being the de facto language of international understanding, scholarship, scientific studies, trades, diplomacy, and cultural exchanges. The paper acknowledges the vital role of English in tertiary education. Hence, the study has involved premier universities among the three ASEAN members and compares the curricular emphasis for English as the medium of instruction. This paper centers on the curriculum mapping of the representative universities through some key informants and documentary analysis. This research has used mixed methods to show what the three representative universities have gone through in solidifying the status of English not only in the curriculum but more importantly in workplaces across the industries. Learning from the best practices of the participating universities, the Bulacan State University may find materials in taking a proactive and strategic position in revitalizing practices in English instruction across the disciplines. The paper indicates the ways by which the practices in English curriculum be reinforced starting with refocusing priorities down to cascading best practices at the classroom level. In effect, this paper tears down the classic notion of a university sitting on an ivory tower. Instead, the higher institution of learning, through research and extension services, strikes the balance between its mandate and the emerging realities to ensure that its graduates remain relevant, responsive, and productive – not only in the Philippines but also in the ASEAN community.