An investigation into foreign language anxiety in English-medium higher education: The case of a Turkish private university

The main purpose of this study to investigate the relationship between Foreign Language Anxiety (FLA) and English-medium Instruction (EMI). In this regard, the study aimed to reveal FLA levels of students at an EMI university, the sources of their FLA and whether there were statistically significant differences in FLA levels of first, second and third year students. A mixed method concurrent triangulation research method was conducted with 190 students from different undergraduate levels and different departments. Quantitative data of the study was collected through a 5-point Likert Scale, which was adapted from Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) by Horwitz, Horwitz and Cope (1986), and the data was analyzed with SPSS (Version 23.0). On the other hand, a semi-structured interview form that was prepared in accordance with the sub-dimensions of the questionnaire, was used to collect qualitative data of the study. The qualitative data was analyzed via content analysis method. The results of the study revealed a moderate negative relationship between EMI and FLA. Also, a statistically significant difference was found on FLA levels of students according to undergraduate levels. Another finding of the study revealed that students had positive opinions and feelings toward EMI. Although the students are in favor of EMI, they indicated some suggestions to develop the concept of EMI lectures. These suggestions indicate the integration of a short summary of the content in Turkish and some modifications in English Preparatory Programs at universities in order to prepare students for EMI. Keywords: English-medium instruction, Foreign Language Anxiety, Higher education.