EMI: a lever for internationalization and the evolution of teaching practices
As part of its internationalization strategy, the University of Montpellier offersEnglish as a Medium of Instruction (EMI)training courses for lecturers and Professors. This initiative aims to support the development of courses taught in English in various disciplines, while enhancing teaching quality.
Beyond English, EMI training courses enable teachers to rethink course structure, clarify instructions, and interact with students in a multilingual and/or multicultural context. They thus offer teachers a space for reflection and skill development, while contributing to the attractiveness of our courses for local and international students.
Since 2024, the University of Montpellier has organized several EMI sessions that have brought together teachers from all disciplines. These training courses have made it possible to set up bilingual courses in different departments and to integrate new teaching practices that promote inclusion and the active participation of international students.
The next English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) session will take place from June 9 to 12, 2026. Practical information is available online on the UM intranet site.
Testimonials
The EMI training was a very enriching experience. Both educational and human, it gave me a better understanding of learners' expectations. The multicultural approach that was presented to us promotes awareness of the needs of those involved. It also provides us with ideas for energizing and creating group cohesion within our learning environment. The English communication techniques are original and constructive. Finally, speaking English all week long helps improve our oral fluency.
Audrey De Ceglie, Faculty of Pharmacy
The EMI training course I took in June 2025 provided me with very interesting theoretical input on teaching a subject in a foreign language, as well as numerous examples and role-playing exercises. Not only was I able to practice English regularly, but I also gained an understanding of the challenges and difficulties involved in this type of teaching. I would like to thank the trainers for their dedication and the relevance of the materials and content. I highly recommend this training course.
Aurélie Guélen, timeshare FDE Perpignan
Hello, I signed up for the EMI course as a personal challenge. Not being comfortable with the English language, I was curious to find out what this experience would bring me after a week of training (early June 2025). In reality, it was much more than just learning: it was total immersion, punctuated by the creation and implementation of a session to conclude these five intensive days! An enthusiastic and caring team guided our group through a variety of dynamic activities that we can transfer to our classroom practices. Finding the time for training, meetings, and exchanges with colleagues from other disciplines and other institutions seems difficult in the hectic pace of the year... but it is possible! It is a real opportunity to benefit from high-quality training offered by the university! A big THANK YOU to the entire team of trainers!
Isabelle Rizzo, teacher of literature at FDE, expression, culture, and communication at IUT, TC
