ENGLISH PRACTICE SPACES FOR GLOBAL MOBILITY: A CASE STUDY OF AN INTERNATIONALLY ORIENTED UNIVERSITY IN VIETNAM

Abstract

English language teaching and learning takes an essential role in internationalizing higher education. In Vietnam, tertiary institutions have striven to elevate students’ English proficiency as a solid package for their global mobility. Through the case study of a private university with an international orientation, this study aims to explore the spaces for English practice deployed at this institution and teachers’ perceived constraints on such environments. This study drew on a critical analysis of language-related policies, annual internal reports and website posts, and interview data with 10 full-time English teachers at the university. Findings reveal abundant opportunities and spaces for language practice that reiterated the significance of English in its internationalization pursuit. However, the teachers noted many limitations impeding such efforts concerning student engagement, individualized support, and alignment with internationalization. This study provides practical implications for administrators, language program developers and teachers in creating more ample spaces for language practice and ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of such platforms.