Applying CLIL to college English for normal universities in China

Abstract

College English is an important compulsory course for university students in China. However, relevant studies show that many College English students lack motivation. Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), with its dual focus on language and content, can be adopted to address this problem. This paper provides a review of the definitions, benefits, applications, and challenges of CLIL. Based on the review, a framework for the application of CLIL to College English for normal universities in China has been proposed. In this framework, College English should be integrated with Education, Psychology, and Pedagogy, the three content areas required for all future teachers. A new name and more credits are needed for this integrated course. Finally, the paper argues that College English teachers can be ideal instructors for this integrated course, given their previous educational background in Education, Psychology, and Pedagogy, but they should be provided with additional training for a smooth transition from language teachers to CLIL teachers.