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The Needs Analysis of Science and Engineering Students’ Language Learning Program: A Mixed Methods Approach

Moradi Mousavi, Maryam | 2013

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  1. Type of Document: M.Sc. Thesis
  2. Language: Farsi
  3. Document No: 45211 (31)
  4. University: Sharif University of Technology
  5. Department: Languages and Linguistics Center
  6. Advisor(s): Salehi, Mohammad; Jahangard, Ali
  7. Abstract:
  8. In various fields of engineering sciences, SUT occupies the highest rank among other technical universities in Iran based on the ranking of Islamic World Science Citation Center (ISC) in 2013. It is, therefore, the host of the majority of exceptionally talented engineering students. In this respect, students of SUT are expected to perform considerably well in their future academic and vocational careers. The primary aim of this investigation is to shed light on a more appropriate course syllabus customized to the needs of these gifted students. A triangulation approach to data collection was employed to gain more insights into the study. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire was administered to 607 under- graduate students; furthermore, semi-structured interviews with 20 under-graduate and 6 graduate and postgraduate students were conducted. Seven experienced ESAP teachers and three specialists teaching Technical English courses at SUT took part in the interviews as well. The results of triangulation technique indicated that reading and writing are the most useful perceived language skills by all lines of inquiry. In addition, the participants conceived that the ability to use English for searching on the Internet, along with writing scientific essays are the most advantageous educational skills. The striking point is that, despite the fact that English teachers are well aware of the presence of writing as one of the main required skills, most of the class syllabi examined by researchers by and large do not appropriately incorporate this skill as is actually required. The results of the study can be of paramount significance for curriculum developers, course designers and language instructors in order to furnish their students with the English courses developed based on the actual needs of the students
  9. Keywords:
  10. Needs Analysis ; English for Specific Purposes ; Triangulation Method ; Curriculum

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