How to Better Serve EFL College Learners in CBI Courses

Abstract

This study investigated Korean college learners’ attitudes toward and perception of Content-Based Instruction (CBI) for the purpose of making suggestions for how to offer CBI courses more effectively fulfilling the CBI promises. Based on the analyses of data obtained from questionnaire, interview, and discussion with CBI instructors, the study found that the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners were highly interested and motivated in taking CBI courses. At the same time, they had difficulties in comprehending and expressing themselves in the CBI course while finding it a rewarding experience. The study also found different attitudes and perception toward CBI courses in terms of anticipated difficulties and benefits between the current CBI course-takers and prospective CBI course-takers, and between more motivated CBI participants and more general CBI participants while it indicated that most of them seemed to be in need of systematic assistance in overcoming challenges brought out by lack of language skills and academic skills, and/or emotional distress.