Needs Analysis in EAP of Computer and Mechanical Engineering English Courses The Case of Islamic Azad university of Shiraz
Journal Title: International Research Journal of Applied and Basic Sciences - Year 2016, Vol 10, Issue 5
Abstract
The present study is an attempt to carry out a needs analysis of Iranian undergraduate students studying computer and mechanical engineering. A total of 365 undergraduate students and eight EAP instructors participated in the study from Islamic Azad university of Shiraz. The instruments were students’ questionnaire; instructor’s questionnaire, instructors’ interview, and observation. Three main research questions were addressed in this study in order to find the English language needs of the students in EAP classes according to the different stakeholders’ attitudes. Qualitative and statistical analyses of the data revealed that the majority of the students are not satisfied with the contents of English textbooks, teaching methodology, evaluation methods, and textbooks. Students preferred Iranian instructors who have their expertise in English but instructors unanimously believed EAP course should be taught by subject specialist. Results of interviews with EAP instructors indicated that the instructors sharply criticize the low level of students’ language proficiency in EAP classes and report that the students’ English language ability is unsatisfactory to meet the expectations in their specialized courses. They recommend an increase in teaching hours of general English courses. Classroom observation revealed that, the activities which received attention in ESP classes of computer and mechanic in BA level were English to Farsi translation of paragraphs, translation of technical terms and reading. This study suggests the syllabus designers to be more aware of the learners’ needs; also it provides a sound basis and valuable implications for curriculum developers and teachers in developing ESP English courses.
Authors and Affiliations
Aida Esmaeili| English Language and Literature Department Islamic Azad University of Marvdasht, email: aidaesmaili1989@yahoo.com
Keywords
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