The UK and Australia are home to prestigious universities renowned for offering world-class courses, where students are required to demonstrate both English proficiency and strong academic performance to gain admission.However, recent studies reveal that even students with limited native language skills are graduating from these top institutions. While candidates must pass exams like TOEFL and IELTS with scores above 5.0 to secure admission, many still struggle with basic English comprehension once they are enrolled.
English proficiency among international students in the UK: What’s the real picture?
A blog written by two anonymous professors at Russell Group institutions, published by the Higher Education Policy Institute states that many international students at British universities fail to meet critical English language proficiency requirements for their degrees, yet continue to receive their qualifications. The issue is most prominent in Masters programmes and poses a significant long-term threat to the global reputation of UK higher education, according to the professors.
Many students depend on translation apps for real-time interpretation of spoken content, which compels professors to adjust the content, teaching style, and pace of their classes. “Frequently, open questions posed to the class are met with silence,” the academicians observed. This situation is negatively affecting staff well-being, as they are forced to conduct classes that fall short of academic standards.
English language skills of international students in Australia: A reality check
According to a report published by The Guardian Australia, an Australian website of the British global online and print newspaper, The Guardian, the institutes located in the country have a long-standing financial dependence on International students. This has led to undermining their academic standards, and has jeopardized the sector’s global reputation. According to the report, most of the students lack basic English proficiency skills but are granted degrees. Many students, who were part of the survey, expressed concern that the rise of artificial intelligence is augmenting the issue, suggesting that only a failure to submit any work would result in failing a course unless universities develop a unified and effective response.
English dominates as a global language in academic settings
In a globalised world where borders are blurred by technology, international trade, and migration, the dominance of English as the language of communication and commerce is undeniable. While the era of colonisation may be long gone, English continues to hold unparalleled importance, especially for those seeking education in English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, or even the US. Lacking proficiency in the native language becomes a challenging issue in comprehension of academic resources. On the other hand, social exclusion further exacerbates the issue. Here is why students need to master English even in a globalised world.
English as a mandate in UK and Australian Universities
Educational institutions hosted by the UK and Australia have high academic standards with a focus on cultivating language proficiency in students. Many institutes have required students to pass the IELTS and TOEFL exams before they are admitted mandating English proficiency in students.
Without establishing a strong foothold in the language, students struggle to understand lectures, textbooks, and academic resources, making them lag behind other native students. Complex subjects can become even more challenging when language barriers hinder understanding, resulting in poor academic performance.
Evaluation of subjects is conducted in English language
Writing essays, reports, and taking exams requires not only subject knowledge but also the ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in English. Students who haven’t mastered the language often find it difficult to structure their thoughts, use proper academic language, and meet the standards expected by professors.
Furthermore, discussing ideas and doubts in classrooms form an integral part of academic learning. Limited language proficiency can hinder students from sharing their ideas and taking part in discussions, presentations, and group discussions. This can significantly impact their comprehension of the subject as well as their grades.
Resources are mostly prepared in English
A plethora of resources are available on online sites, such as scholarly journals, textbooks and articles. But English has gained dominance over these areas as well. Most of the content is available in English language, making it difficult for students to comprehend the challenging topics due to their limited English language proficiency.
English is a dominant language in workplaces
Many international students aim to gain work experience through part-time jobs or internships. However, a lack of English proficiency can limit opportunities in competitive job markets, where communication skills are often a top priority for employers. This can hinder a student’s ability to build their resume or gain practical experience in their field. In industries such as finance, healthcare, engineering, and IT, English is often used to bridge communication gaps between colleagues from different linguistic backgrounds.
English is needed for cultural and intellectual exchange
Globalisation has made cross-cultural communication more important than ever. English serves as a bridge, enabling students from diverse cultures to engage in intellectual exchange. Those who lack proficiency in English may find themselves left out of important discussions and collaborations.
Additionally, language is deeply tied to culture, and students who struggle with English may find it difficult to fully immerse themselves in their host country’s culture. Understanding cultural nuances, humor, and social cues often requires strong language skills, and without them, students may miss out on valuable cultural experiences.
English is a must for access to professional opportunities
English is a must-know language for pursuing job opportunities in business, diplomacy, and technology. Candidates looking forward to establishing their careers in multinational companies, working in research, or undergoing graduate programmes must have a strong hold of the English language to carve a niche for themselves. Employers hailing from the UK, Australia, and other English-speaking countries prefer candidates with strong English proficiency as it is needed for communication, collaboration, and leadership.
Social Integration and Networking makes English important
The need for possessing proficiency in English language skills transcends the boundaries of classtooms. It’s essential for thriving in a foreign country. From grocery shopping to managing banking and healthcare, students who don’t speak the local language may face frequent misunderstandings and frustrations, adding stress to their already demanding academic life.
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