English medium instruction at a private university in Bangladesh: a phenomenological inquiry

Abstract

The phenomenon of EMI in higher education level has been at the forefront of discussion in many parts of the world and Bangladesh has been no exception. In recent times, Bangladesh has directed itself to EMI in higher education. Despite English playing a major role in tertiary education, studies associated to EMI from Bangladeshi perspective has been quite limited. This study reports a phenomenological inquiry involving teachers and students at a privately run HEI in Dhaka, Bangladesh examining the perception of the students and teachers about EMI classrooms. Findings confirmed that student’s and teacher’s regard for EMI is construed by the perceived benefits of English in creating global citizens, enhancing job prospects among others. It is suggested that MOI policies play a role at global and national levels in development of a student in a globalizing world where English is regarded as a gargantuan tool for bettering individuals and societies.