A Review of English for Medical Purposes Teaching: Significance, Challenges, and the Future

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jhet.202515140

Author(s)

Shuning Li*

Affiliation(s)

School of Education, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK *Corresponding Author

Abstract

This paper explores the current state, challenges, and practical approaches in English for Medical Purposes (EMP) teaching. EMP plays a vital role in the field of medicine, enabling medical students and professionals to effectively communicate and disseminate knowledge across cultural and linguistic boundaries. EMP education has developed a lot, although it still faces challenges such as rapidly updated medical knowledge, complex medical terminology, and lack of interdisciplinary communication. Effective EMP education requires a curriculum grounded in needs analysis, task-based language teaching, and the integration of advanced technologies. Teachers need interdisciplinary expertise and continuous professional development to meet these demands. Looking ahead, future EMP instruction should prioritize personalized learning, enhanced teacher training, and the expansion of teaching resources. The adoption of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), is anticipated to further transform EMP education, equipping medical professionals to thrive in increasingly interconnected healthcare systems.

Keywords

Medical English Teaching and Learning; English for Medical Purpose (EMP); EMP Teaching, Curriculum Design; The Development of EMP

References

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