Awareness of China English: Chinese vocational and technical college students’ views: (in progress)

Ziyu Huang; Eric Ambele

doi:10.62819/jel.2025.753

Authors

Ziyu Huang Department of Western Languages and Linguistics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Thailand
Eric A. Ambele Department of Western Languages and Linguistics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62819/jel.2025.753

Keywords:

China English, English as an international language (EIL), English language teaching (ELT), World Englishes

Abstract

The English language has become globally prevalent as an International Language (EIL), achieving legitimacy in outer-circle regions where localized varieties have developed and gaining significant status in expanding-circle areas like East Asia. In China, English has grown remarkably over the past thirty years. This study examined Chinese Business English major students' awareness of China English and their preferences for English varieties used in Chinese classrooms within the context of EIL. Data from semi-structured interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis (QCA). Findings revealed that students generally prefer British or American English due to their early exposure through formal education, but increased global interactions are fostering greater acceptance of China English as a legitimate variety. This study contributes to the World Englishes framework, offering theoretical and pedagogical insights into English learning and teaching in China. The findings highlight the need for a more inclusive approach that acknowledges both global and local English varieties, enhancing the pedagogical framework to better reflect the evolving global landscape of English.

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