The Analysis of Prospective Engineers’ Needs of Learning through English for Specific Purposes

Abstract

English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is important for learners in various fields. It enables them to study their courses and complete their graduation. It helps them seek good jobs and enhance their performance. Its importance lies in preparing learners for effective communication, analysing needs, and exploring text. Needs analysis is essential before developing ESP course outlines. Engineers in Pakistan need English to perform at national and international levels. The researchers decided to carry out a needs analysis at Wah Engineering College, Wah Cantt, Pakistan (WECP). This descriptive study employed a questionnaire comprising 43 statements covering five constructs: Learners' opinions on reasons for learning English, their perceived abilities, needs of English skills, learning needs, and the role of the teacher and syllabus. All the 1280 students of graduate programs comprised a population, and 116 learners were selected randomly from the Chemical Engineering Department as a sample for this study. The data were analysed for frequencies and percentages of responses and the mean for the overall impression for constructs. The findings disclosed that the learners wanted training in all ESP skills, especially writing and speaking and they wanted to learn through a learner-centred approach.