Needs Analysis for Developing an ESP Curriculum for IT Students
Keywords: need analysis, ESP, curriculum, information technology
Abstract
This study aims to identify the specific English language skills required by students of Information Technology (IT) and assess the adequacy of current English instruction in meeting these needs. The research investigates students' perceptions of the importance of English in IT, their challenges in using English, and their preferred learning methods. A survey was conducted among IT students to gather data on their experiences, difficulties, and expectations regarding English language learning. The results indicate that while students acknowledge the significance of English in their field, they often struggle with understanding technical documentation, writing professional reports, and engaging in verbal communication. They also express a strong preference for more practical, task-based learning approaches, such as interactive discussions, project-based assignments, and specialized English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses designed for IT contexts. These findings suggest the need for a curriculum that integrates real-world IT communication scenarios, enhances technical vocabulary acquisition, and provides immersive English learning experiences. The study concludes that an improved ESP curriculum should focus on practical application and industry relevance to better prepare students for professional IT environments.
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