Impacts of EMI Courses on English Language Proficiency: Students’ Voices

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) courses in fostering the development of English language skills among students majoring in tourism and hospitality at a Vietnamese higher education institution. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 154 EMI students majoring in tourism and hospitality through a questionnaire. The results demonstrate that students perceive the greatest improvement in their specialized English vocabulary knowledge after taking EMI courses. However, writing skills and the ability to use English grammar in daily conversation are perceived to improve the least. Compared to second-year students, third-year students evaluate the effectiveness of EMI courses in improving English language proficiency higher. In addition, EMI students report that in-class activities such as listening to EMI lectures, studying class materials, participating in oral presentations, and making English presentations help enhance students’ English.