PROJECT-BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING AS A BRIDGE TO EMI SUCCESS: THE CASE OF UZBEKISTAN
Keywords:
Project-Based Language Teaching (PBLT); English for Academic Purposes (EAP); English-Medium Instruction (EMI); Academic Literacy; Uzbekistan; Higher EducationAbstract
In Uzbekistan, a growing number of universities - such as Webster, Westminster, British Management University, and New Uzbekistan University - now deliver their programs through English. Students entering these institutions typically come from Uzbek- or Russian-medium schools. While many possess general English proficiency ranging from B1 to C1, they often struggle with the transition to academic English required in university coursework. This paper argues that Project-Based Language Teaching (PBLT) can serve as an effective bridge between general English preparation and the linguistic and academic demands of English-medium instruction (EMI). Drawing on international studies and the Uzbek context, I show how project-based approaches foster academic literacy, critical thinking, and confidence. I also address challenges for teachers and institutions, and outline principles for a PBLT-based EAP course tailored for EMI entrants in Uzbekistan.
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