The Great Debate: English-Medium Instruction vs. Chinese-Medium Instruction250

The question of whether to use English or Chinese as the medium of instruction (MOI) in schools has been a contentious issue in many countries, including Hong Kong. There are strong arguments to be made for both sides of the debate, and the decision ultimately depends on a variety of factors, including the specific context of each country or region.

Arguments for English-Medium Instruction (EMI)
Access to global knowledge: English is the lingua franca of the international academic and business world. EMI provides students with access to a wider range of resources and opportunities, both in terms of higher education and employment.
Improved English proficiency: EMI can help students to develop a higher level of English proficiency, which is essential for success in today's globalized world. Studies have shown that students who are taught in English from a young age perform better on standardized English tests and are more likely to achieve native-like fluency.
Cognitive benefits: Some research suggests that EMI can have cognitive benefits for students, such as improved problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities. This is thought to be because EMI requires students to process information in a more complex way than when they are learning in their native language.

Arguments for Chinese-Medium Instruction (CMI)
Preservation of cultural identity: CMI helps to preserve the cultural identity of a country or region. When students are taught in their native language, they are more likely to develop a strong sense of belonging and connection to their culture.
Better academic achievement: Some studies have shown that students who are taught in their native language perform better academically than those who are taught in a foreign language. This is because students are able to learn more effectively when they are able to understand the material in their own language.
Emotional well-being: Studies have also shown that students who are taught in their native language have better emotional well-being than those who are taught in a foreign language. This is because students are more comfortable and confident when they are able to learn in their own language.

Conclusion

The decision of whether to use EMI or CMI is a complex one. There are strong arguments to be made for both sides of the debate, and the decision ultimately depends on a variety of factors, including the specific context of each country or region. In Hong Kong, the government has adopted a bilingual education policy that aims to provide students with the benefits of both EMI and CMI. This policy has been met with mixed reactions, but it is clear that the debate over MOI is likely to continue for many years to come.

2024-11-17

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