Sociocultural Factors Influencing Language Learning Among Central Asian Students

This article examines the sociocultural factors influencing English language learning among students fromCentral Asia, with a particular focus on the gap between conversational English proficiency and academic English competence.Drawing on sociocultural theory and research in English for Academic Purposes (EAP), the study analyzes howprior educational practices, teacher-centered instruction, and limited exposure to academic literacy shape learners’ preparednessfor higher education. The findings indicate that while many Central Asian students demonstrate strong motivationand functional oral communication skills, they often struggle with academic reading, writing, and critical engagementrequired in Western-modeled higher education institutions.