Working with Global English: The Experience of English Language Teachers in a University Language College

Abstract

Through in-depth interviews and focus groups with English Language teachers employed at auniversity bridging college, this paper explores the challenges that teachers face in preparinginternational students for university life in Australia. Findings from this research suggest that thenarrow business focused objectives of the English Language market undermine more holisticapproaches to teaching English. A more holistic approach is required to respond to the social andcultural needs of students while they are studying in Australia. Nevertheless, this researchsuggests that regardless of the instrumental and reductionist neo liberal philosophy whichinforms these programs, meaningful intercultural dialogue, critical thinking and some holisticlearning does take place.