English as a Medium of Instruction at the Algerian University: Fiction or Reality?
Abstract
Due to the French colonization of Algeria for 132 years, speakers of French as a second language outnumber speakers of English. Since English is not spoken outside the classroom, it remains a language of an artificial setting. Though it has become the language of science and technology, it opens new horizons on the international and scientific levels. The introduction of English to higher education as a Medium of instruction (EMI) in some fields was not welcomed by many students who found it challenging to adapt to the new system. With the arrival of the Minister of Higher Education Tayeb Bouzid in 2019, there was an attempt to drop French from higher education and be substituted by English, but it could, by no means, happen magically overnight. Students still struggle with the language confusion policy in Algeria, and there is a need for a slow but sure change. The inclusion of English as the medium of instruction may be implemented in the next generations in specific fields. Her presentation will focus on the need for preparatory schools for ESP and science and technology. She will also highlight how entry tests, exits tests, and qualified teachers are sine qua non for the success of the operation.
BIO Note
Dr. Fouzia Rouaghe is an associate professor at University of Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Sétif 2. She holds a doctorate and is a CELTA Qualified Teacher Trainer. She has a vast teaching experience and has an expertise in teaching modules like Oral Expression, English for Specific Purposes, Academic Writing, grammar, Phonology, Cross-Cultural Communication.