Immersive Block Learning in English Medium Instruction Transnational Education: Exploring Student Experiences
SSRN, Vol.Series Paper No. 62
Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching, Elsevier
10/09/2026
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The rapid expansion of transnational education (TNE) and English-medium instruction (EMI) has increased the need for evidence-based higher-education (HE) curriculum models that support diverse student cohorts in cross-cultural contexts. This exploratory mixed-methods study examines the effectiveness of immersive block learning within EMI HE TNE partnerships. Focusing on the experiences, satisfaction, and academic success of English as an additional language/dialect (EAL/D) students studying in EMI TNE contexts in China and Papua New Guinea, it draws on retrospective institutional data (success N=8,974; satisfaction N=2,067) and qualitative focus group insights. The study compares outcomes between traditional semester-based delivery and a six-week immersive block model. Findings indicate that the block model is associated with consistently high, and often significantly improved student success and satisfaction rates across diverse international cohorts. Qualitative analysis further reveals that students perceive the model as fostering self-discipline, autonomous learning, and collaborative skills, although experiences are shaped by contextual factors such as prior educational expectations, operationalisation of the model and digital access constraints. The study contributes to the limited evidence base on curriculum innovation in TNE EMI contexts, demonstrating that immersive block models can support positive student outcomes while highlighting the importance of local implementation conditions. Implications emphasise the need for consistent operationalisation of the block and pedagogical scaffolding, to optimise effectiveness in cross-cultural higher education settings.
- Immersive Block Learning in English Medium Instruction Transnational Education: Exploring Student Experiences
- Sharon Leslie (Author) - Southern Cross UniversityThomas Roche (Author) - Southern Cross UniversityElizabeth Goode (Author) - Southern Cross UniversityRaphaela Value Sigamata (Author) - Southern Cross University, IBSUniversity
- SSRN, Vol.Series Paper No. 62
- Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching
- Elsevier
- 25
- 991013400072202368
- SCU College
- English
- Preprint
- Original Research - SoLT