“It’s easier talking to a machine”

Privacy, motivation, and the underuse of English language labs in a Sino-foreign university in China

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/g5wkva87

Keywords:

English Language Lab, speaking anxiety, transnational higher education, EMI, privacy paradox, self-determination theory, Chinese undergraduates, Global South, international students

Abstract

Despite significant investment, English language labs (ELLs) at transnational campuses remain underutilized beyond mandatory course requirements. This qualitative case study draws on thematic analysis of interviews with 22 Chinese undergraduates at a Sino-American branch campus in mainland China. Students value the ELL's diagnostic feedback and low-anxiety speaking practice. However, voluntary use is hindered by severe privacy concerns and accent-related anxiety in open layouts, widespread unawareness, outdated and generic content, and competition from mobile apps. Three learner personas emerge: the Anxious Beginner, Test-Prepper, and Advanced Critic. Informed by self-determination theory and foreign language anxiety research, the findings highlight how cultural “face” concerns and poor facility design undermine engagement. Students propose soundproof booths, targeted promotion, and personalized diagnostic pathways. The study offers actionable recommendations to transform ELLs into inclusive, sought-after resources in English-medium transnational education.

Author Biographies

  • Liam Duffy, Wenzhou-Kean University, China

    LIAM DUFFY, EdD, is a Lecturer in the Curriculum and Instruction (MATESOL) Department, College of Education, at Wenzhou-Kean University, China. His major research interests include the recruitment and retention of international faculty at English-medium instruction (EMI) universities, job satisfaction, and organizational support. Additionally, he is interested in language learning, student success, and test-taking strategies for both Chinese learners of English and expatriate academics aiming to learn Mandarin. 

  • Lin Binghang, Wenzhou-Kean University, China

    LIN BINGHANG is a graduate student and research assistant in the Curriculum and Instruction (MATESOL) Department, College of Education, at Wenzhou-Kean University, China.

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Published

2026-03-04

Issue

2026: Online First: Journal of International Students

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Research Articles (English, regular edition)

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How to Cite

Duffy, L., & Binghang, L. (2026). “It’s easier talking to a machine”: Privacy, motivation, and the underuse of English language labs in a Sino-foreign university in China. Journal of International Students, 89-104. https://doi.org/10.32674/g5wkva87