Clearing the language barrier: A support scheme for students with English as a second language improved their ability to express complex concepts, says Yenna Salamonson

摘要

Acquiring academic writing skills can be a challenge for today's increasingly diverse population of nursing students. It can be particularly hard for those who speak English as a second language and are studying the biological sciences, which involve complex concepts. Although learning strategies that integrate content knowledge with language and learning skills - commonly known as embedded support - are thought to improve academic writing skills, there is little evidence to demonstrate this relationship. Furthermore, although subject tutors are often seen by students as the best teachers, they may need to work with writing experts to support students who are less proficient in English.