The Challenges of Implementing English as a Medium of Instruction in Higher Education: The Case of Third- year Teaching/ Learning Situation at the Biomedical Engineering Department of Tlemcen University- Algeria

Abstract

The English language has emerged as a global language, becoming the language of international communication and academic research. This trend was reflected in the adoption of English as the medium of instruction in higher education especially in Algerian universities. The present study aims to explore the challenges facing university teachers and students regarding the shift to the use of English as a medium of instruction. To achieve this purpose, research was undertaken at the level of the Biomedical Engineering Department of Tlemcen University. The focus was on third year License level. Data was collected through a questionnaire distributed to 40 students and conducting an interview with 4 teachers involved in the aforementioned teaching/ learning situation. The results showed that students and teachers have positive attitudes towards the English language; however, they face major obstacles in mastering and using this language as a primary means of instruction. Besides, the teachers interviewed indicated that the training they received did not adequately match their needs and purposes. Accordingly, some suggestions and recommendations are presented in order to remedy such a situation and reach course effectiveness for both teachers and learners.