Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides an accessible introduction to the nature of English Medium Instruction (EMI) for use in professional development workshops and courses and for groups that include EMI teachers of content subjects, english for academic purposes teachers, TESOL students, and teachers and education officials involved with the implementation of EMI in different contexts. It introduces the scope, background, and nature of EMI. It characterizes the features of different EMI approaches and identifies the connection between the medium of instruction and learning of academic content. The book examines the dimensions and features of EMI in different contexts. It discusses the issues involved in implementing EMI. The translation of EMI policy into effective practices at the classroom level is one of the principal challenges of EMI.