Language as Communication Barrier for Foreign Students: Evidence from Gujarat State Universities

Abstract

Language is vital for interaction in every academic environment. The ability of learners to communicate in a common language is relevant for teaching and learning to run smoothly. This study was to investigate the challenges foreign students in Gujarat encounter concerning language and its effect on their academic activities. The author employed the descriptive survey method of research. The population was all foreign students of higher education institutions in Gujarat, India. An online questionnaire was utilised for data collection. The author used descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and means) for data analysis. The analysis revealed that language differences affect communication among foreign students more than any other factor; foreign students’ academic work, social life, and adjustability are all affected by communication barriers.