Science and Engineering Undergraduates’ Attitudes and Perceptions of English-Mediated Instruction – A Case Study in A Chongqing International Cooperative Program

Abstract

This research sought to investigate the perspective of science and engineering students at Chongqing universities towards English-medium instruction (EMI) delivered by foreign instructors. The participants were 156 undergraduate students who studied at a Sino-Foreign Cooperative Education Programme in Chongqing University of Technology (CQUT). In this study, data was collected through interviews and questionnaires. The research indicates that most students have a high regard for English-medium instruction and have found that taking Science and Engineering classes instructed by foreign teachers in English has been beneficial in terms of enhancing their English language skills and developing their understanding of the subject. Nevertheless, some students with limited English proficiency encountered difficulties understanding specialized knowledge. They found that full English instruction from foreign teachers did not improve their English language skills. Therefore, this study suggested that China’s Sino-foreign Cooperation Programmes should consider the divergences in students’ English proficiency and vocational objectives and offer differentiated instruction, mentoring, and professional English language training.