Exploring Communication Challenges of International Students in English-Medium Instruction Contexts.
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2025-06-19
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en
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English-Medium of Instruction settings are increasingly prevalent in universities, attracting international students with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Language barriers, cultural differences, and underlying structures within the academic context can lead to communication challenges. Much existing literature has explored challenges faced by relatively homogenous student groups studying in Anglophone countries, creating a gap in the literature. This research aims to expand frameworks by exploring communication challenges faced by international students studying in non-Anglophone EMI university settings in the Netherlands. This study adopted a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews. Key findings indicate that the frequent use of the local language not only affects international students’ ability to effectively communicate, but also impacts their sense of inclusion and integration in the host country. The study emphasises the need for more inclusive institutional practices and mutual effort from local and international students to foster an environment suitable for inclusive and open communication.
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