Work

Students’ Perspectives and Attitudes Toward EMI and Translanguaging: A Cross‐Country Comparative Study of China and Spain

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT English‐medium instruction (EMI) is expanding worldwide, with China and Spain playing an increasingly active role in its implementation. While EMI promotes internationalization and academic development, few studies compare contexts across countries. Drawing on interview data, this qualitative study examines students’ attitudes toward EMI and translanguaging in China and Spain. Findings reveal generally positive views of EMI, though Chinese students faced more difficulties due to lower English proficiency. Both groups showed neutral‐to‐positive attitudes toward translanguaging but preferred limited L1 use. Chinese participants were stricter about avoiding L1 to improve English. The study offers implications for adopting flexible, inclusive language policies that enhance learning and promote linguistic equity in multilingual EMI settings.

Source: International Journal of Applied Linguistics

DOI: 10.1111/ijal.70056

Authors: Mengjia Zhang, Jennifer Rose Ament

Institutions: Xi'an International Studies University, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Language: English

Topic: Second Language Learning and Teaching

Subfield: Literature and Literary Theory

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Education Department of Shaanxi Province