English language mastery as an ease factor to access health information in industrial revolution 4.0: A local challenge for global opportunities

Abstract

Objective

Access to health information in Industrial Revolution 4.0 is eased by English language mastery. This study aims to describe university students’ English proficiency based on their TOEFL prediction scores and to explain how it can influence their access to health information.

Methods

This research is a descriptive study that describes the results of students’ English language proficiency in one of the universities in Manado, Indonesia. The method used was quantitative method. The instrument in this study was the TOEFL Prediction test with three main components of Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, and Reading Comprehension. The data analysis was conducted statistically to see the students’ English proficiency levels and in particular the differences between female and male students.

Results

English mastery is needed for the access to health information in Industrial Revolution 4.0. The average proficiency level of the university students is still a bit low with the average score of 415.78, although there are a few students who have managed to achieve above-average scores. This indicates that average students may still have difficulty to access health information. In terms of gender differences, the percentage of male students mastering the language is a bit higher than that of female students, but the highest score belongs to a female student.

Conclusion

English language mastery for the access to health information in Industrial Revolution 4.0 is still a challenge for university students, particularly in Manado. Efforts are needed to increase their language proficiency level for global opportunities.