Language Shift and Educational Gaps: Exploring the Impact of English Medium Instruction through SEM

Abstract

This paper shows that the medium of instruction is a major factor influencing academic performance of students, and English is at the forefront in determining the academic performance of students. The Structural Equation Modelling application indicated that teacher support, student motivation, educational background, learning strategies, skill to communicate in English and attitude towards English language are all positively related with academic performance. Nevertheless, language anxiety was observed to have negative impact on English communication which subsequently has an impact on the motivation and learning outcome. The confirmatory factor analysis was used to verify all these factors. Such results align with the recent sources that prove that a good command of English is not merely an instrument of academic success but also a facilitator of self-confidence and sustainability of learning. As such, the creation of a positive classroom atmosphere, the reduction of the language anxiety and the enrichment of teacher functions are the most important factors to enhance the students performance in an English-based classroom.