English-only conferences: What did a non-native speaker expert note?

It is now confirmed that the visibility of academics depends on their written production. However, established scholars in English as an Additional Language environments are also striving to be more visible at English-only conferences. Thus, oral proficiency, in the case of non-native-speaker (NNS) experts, is no longer a deferred need. The paper examines the notes taken by a Tunisian professor of chemistry while attending an international conference. The communicative functions of the expressions selected by the attendee are identified and categorized. The findings could contribute to a more effective teaching of English for Conferencing. The aim is to shed further light on the particular linguistic and rhetorical needs of NNS professionals who wish to participate at English-only international conferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]