English as Lingua Franca at European Universities?

Abstract

English has been and still is expanding all over the world and to some extent establishing itself as a Lingua Franca amongst people with other native languages. This essay focuses on the effects of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) in Europe, in particular European Universities, as English seems to be gaining popularity with both students and faculties. The paper discusses the pressure of English usage in international communication and examines the term Lingua Franca as such and in connection with English usage among non-natives. Further, it introduces the divided scholars´ views on the role of ELF and discusses concerns and problems related to ELF. Lastly, it examines the effects of ELF in Higher Education.