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English Without Borders%3F - Lessons learned from Science Without Borders

This very topical session analyses student and teacher experiences in the language preparation stage of the Science Without Borders program in an Australian university setting and examines how lessons learned from this cohort could be implemented as key elements of English language curriculum and policy - like the English Without Borders program in Brazilian institutions.

Session Description: One of the stated aims of the Brazilian 'English Without Borders' program is to provide candidates for the 'Science Without Borders' scholarship an opportunity to improve their English language proficiency more quickly and efficiently and improve their chances of participating fully in these exchange opportunities. In response, an Australian university conducted a reflective survey on the teachers and student cohort of Science Without Borders undertaking intensive English language preparation in-country, prior to a semester of science-focused study abroad. Based on qualitative questionnaires and interviews, the survey investigates and identifies the challenges students and teachers have faced, including whether there is a knowledge gap related to critical literacy and learner autonomy in English language preparation, as perceived by Brazilian undergraduate university students studying abroad and their on-course teachers and how explicit instruction of these key elements could be addressed in the English Without Borders program to address relevant knowledge and skill gaps. The findings will also be examined to identify any other outstanding issues to be considered in the delivery of the English Without Borders Program on reflection by students and teachers on preparation programs in the target language/country. This practical focused session is highly relevant to current language and education policy and teaching practice in Brazil, as well as the significant ripple effects these policies are creating in the global education field. The study provides a platform for broader research into the issue of maximising the Brazilian federal government's social return on investment in this highly ambitious scheme with the potential to transform a generation.

Author(s):

Jacqueline White    
The University of Sydney - Centre for English Teaching
Australia

Daniel Bruce    
The University of Sydney - Centre for English Teaching
Australia