The Challenges of Academic English for Academic Competence in Higher Education

Abstract

This paper examines the challenges of academic English for academic competence in Higher Education in the face of present day globalization. First, the paper notes the importance of English as an international language in countries like Nigeria where it serves multiple purposes in education, national unity, and technological development. The various policy objectives of teaching and learning English from primary school to higher education levels are examined and the challenges posed by low achievement of set goals for tertiary institutions are discussed. The importance of effective competence in English in achieving these objectives is highlighted as well as the need to develop new strategies for improving language use. The utilization of computer based learning is then recommended as a a tool for improving learning experience.