Role of English and digital technology in inclusion in Asian higher education: Reflections from students and teachers

Abstract

With the internationalization of higher education (HE) in recent decades, there has been a growing trend to use English as a medium of instruction even in non-anglophone countries. Additionally, HE globally has witnessed a growing trend to use technology for pedagogical purposes. However, little is known about inclusion issues associated with these two trends, particularly in Asia. Utilising survey questionnaires with teachers (n=327) and students (n=5760), interviews with teachers (n =20), and Padlet discussions (n=49) and focus groups (n=75) with students from the four most populous countries in Asia (Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia), the study provides insights into inclusivity in Asian HE. Findings highlight barriers created by the requirements for the English language and technology in entrance tests, digital divides and resulting impacts on students’ learning, and difficulties faced by students in their studies. The paper calls for more research to inform context-sensitive ways to use English and technology.