Medical English Course Quality: A Study of Student and Instructor Perspectives

Abstract

This study investigates the prevailing challenges in teaching English for Medical Purposes (EMP) within Chinese higher education institutions in Guangdong Province, intending to propose strategies for improving the quality and efficacy of EMP instruction. Based on comprehensive responses from EMP instructors and students, three primary issues emerged: a dearth of specialized teaching resources, insufficient medical knowledge among instructors, and limited professional development opportunities. In response to these challenges, the study suggests three core strategies: creating a specialized curriculum, implementing extensive instructor training, and establishing professional learning communities. The proposed specialized curriculum is a coordinated effort between medical professionals and English instructors, integrating timely, authentic, and professional medical content. The instructor training aims to enhance teachers’ medical knowledge and familiarity with the linguistic characteristics of medical English. Finally, establishing learning communities encourages reflective teaching and continual professional growth. The study underscores the importance of these targeted strategies in augmenting the quality of EMP instruction in higher education. Nonetheless, it is crucial to continually refine these recommendations in line with the evolving needs of the medical profession and advancements in language instruction.