Enhancing Academic English Literacy for STEM Graduate Students: A Mixed-Methods Study
School of Foreign Studies, Northwestern Polytechincal University, Xi’an 710129, China
| Abstract: | In recent years, the significant expansion of postgraduate education in China has highlighted the imperative for an in-depth examination of the academic English proficiency of graduate students in STEM disciplines. This study employs a mixed-methods design to explore the structural elements and influencing factors contributing to the advancement of academic English proficiency among STEM graduate students in three “Double First Class” universities in the western region of China. Through interviews and surveys involving graduate students, their supervisors and English language instructors, the research aims to unveil the key dimensions of academic English proficiency and pinpoint factors that influence its development. The study identifies three fundamental dimensions: academic English integrity, academic English critical thinking ability, and academic English communicative competence. The influencing factors encompass the academic English environment, academic English practice, and academic English beliefs. The findings of this research provide valuable insights for enhancing academic English proficiency among STEM graduate students and elevating the overall quality of graduate education. |
| Keywords: | Academic English Literacy; Science and Engineering Graduate Students; Element Structure; Influencing Factors |
| DOI: | 10.57237/j.ssrf.2024.02.001 |
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Received: 8 January 2024
Accepted: 4 March 2024
Published Online: 18 March 2024
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