An Analysis of the Effects of English Medium of Korean Language Education for English Track : International Students: Focusing on Changes in Achievement by Region
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to empirically analyze the impact of Korean language classes utilizing English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) on the academic achievement and perceptions of international students in the “English Track.” To this end, a 15-week study was conducted with 69 multinational learners enrolled in an elementary liberal arts Korean class at ‘S’ University in Daejeon. The findings are as follows: First, the English-mediated teaching method had a positive effect on the achievement of all learners, regardless of their region of origin. Both written and speaking scores rose across all regions between the midterm and final exams, with learners from Southeast Asia recording the highest levels of achievement and the most significant improvement. Second, learners reported a very high level of satisfaction with English-mediated instruction. In particular, auxiliary explanations in English during the stages of explaining grammatical rules, conjugations, and vocabulary meanings played a decisive role in lowering learning barriers and enhancing cognitive accessibility. Third, EMI(English as an Mdedium Instruction) reduced learners' psychological anxiety and improved their communicative self-efficacy. This led to approximately 74% of the learners expressing a strong intention to continue their Korean language studies in the future. In conclusion, for elementary-level English track learners with multinational and multilingual backgrounds, English has proven to be an effective strategic teaching and learning resource beyond a mere tool of convenience. This study proposes an efficient Korean language education model that aligns with the changing university environment and highlights the necessity of integrating English-mediated instruction with a systematic learning management system when designing future elementary Korean language curricula.