Language and Cultural Issues for English-as-a-Second/Foreign Language Students in Transnational Educational Settings

Abstract

As transnational education continues to grow, providing countries are becoming more aware of the need to provide a high quality 'product' in all aspects. This includes not only offering quality courses but also providing the support structures which international students require. In many cases, the educational 'package' is being delivered in the English language, for many students a second or foreign language. While the status of English as a 'world language' makes it highly desirable to have a higher degree in that language, the linguistic and cultural difficulties that this poses for many students should not be underestimated. This paper discusses issues of educational support for international students and offers some suggestions, based on the findings of several research projects undertaken at Curtin University of Technology in recent years.