Medium of instruction in Hong Kong universities: The mis-match between espoused theory and theory in use

This analysis, based on open interviews, focuses on the language of instruction, with full time students in Hong Kong universities. A mis-match was apparent between espoused theory or policy and theory in use, or practice, with respect to English as the medium of instruction, English as a second language and improvement of English standard at university. Student comments suggested that the discrepancies between policy and practice led to declining standards due to the lack of opportunities for practice. Bringing policy in line with practice, is recommended either by adopting first language instruction or by creating zones or occasions where it is expected that English will be used. © 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.