Abstract
Key terms and theoretical concepts on which discussion in the present volume is anchored are unpacked in this chapter, drawing on study abroad as a research field, EMI as a range of settings in which higher education is delivered and socially oriented second language acquisition as a set of theoretical principles. EMI participants enrolled on non-language-related degree courses may or may not bring with them attitudes and behaviours that facilitate the systematic attention to language generally recommended by language learning specialists and leading to noticeable gains in language proficiency. The theory-driven first section is followed by the language learning and use backgrounds of participants in the three primary research projects underpinning this volume, illustrating a range of pathways into EMI and of entry language levels.
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Blaj-Ward, L. (2017). Language Learner Histories: Points of Departure for University Study. In: Language Learning and Use in English-Medium Higher Education. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-63239-1_2
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