Proficiência linguística e internacionalização: um olhar sobre os programas de pós-graduação notas 5, 6 e 7 da UFPel

Abstract

Since the relevance given to the process of internationalization in postsecondary education in Brazil and around the world, this dissertation aimed to analyze a specific number of programs in the graduate programs at UFPel, a southern institution. This research study aimed to investigate the proficiency, from the self-reported proficiency and the one seen in official tests taken by professors and students in graduate programs at UFPel, graded 5, 6, and 7, according to CAPES evaluation between 2013-2016. To check how this is reflected in internationalization actions the programs that have already been executed as well as in actions which are currently undergoing planning and development processes, both in the programs‘ structure and internationalization in this institution. To achieve the main objectives of this research study, we approached general concepts about the internationalization, such as the importance of language policies since the relevant role of languages in the process, and how it is possible to measure proficiency, through self-reported proficiency and the one seen in official tests. The study has a qualitative and documental character and the data analysis used were seen through the application of an online questionnaire, which consisted of open and close questions, moreover, the interpretation of the answers was realized through graphics. Then, the results of the data analyses show professors' and students‘ awareness concerning the importance given to the proficiency seen in official tests and the language barrier seen in the students‘ proficiency in some abilities in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese for Foreigners. Furthermore, it was observed the relevance of English as a recurrent language in official tests and internationalization actions, even with the value that has been given to Spanish in education. Also, even with the low number of foreign students in the institution, the internationalization actions taken in the local context are similar and they required the knowledge of a language.