Challenging the Monoglossic Ideology in English-Medium Higher Education in Türkiye

Abstract

Türkiye has witnessed exponential growth in the number of English-medium instruction (EMI) programs and an influx of international students — changes that are accompanied by challenges and opportunities. This chapter examines the discrepancy between the prevailing English-only policy and the increasing linguistic and cultural diversity in EMI higher education institutions in Türkiye. While the chapter focuses more on EMI programs, similar challenges in Turkish-medium (TMI) programs are also examined. The chapter argues for a shift in perspective that recognizes and embraces language diversity, and proposes the development of inclusive language policies to facilitate student interaction and involvement. It also calls for further research on multilingualism in EMI and TMI programs to inform policymaking, curriculum development, and teacher training. Overall, it argues for a comprehensive understanding of actual language needs and practices in linguistically diverse classrooms to develop policies that better serve the increasingly multilingual student body in Türkiye's universities.