ESP and Needs Assessment - Vocabulary Flashcards (ENGLISH)

A set of vocabulary-style flashcards covering key ESP concepts from the lecture notes, focusing on terms, definitions, and core ideas from Chapters 1–3.

English for Specific Purposes (ESP)

A branch of English Language Teaching that integrates English into the learner’s subject matter, answering the question 'Why does the learner need to learn the language?' and focusing on field-relevant communication.

English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

ESP variant typically used in research, theses, and presentations within schools.

English for Occupational Purposes (EOP)

ESP variant focused on occupational function with task-based language use.

General English

Broad, elementary English taught for practical, daily use.

Inner Circle (Kachru)

Native English-speaking contexts where English is the first language.

Outer Circle (Kachru)

English isn’t native but holds significant importance in those contexts.

Expanding Circle (Kachru)

English learned as a foreign language where it does not hold primary importance.

ESP Characteristics

Needs-oriented, authentic, communication-focused, vocabulary-specific, and cost-effective.

Hutchinson & Waters five stages of ESP development

1) The concept of special language; 2) Beyond the sentence; 3) Target situation analysis; 4) Skills and strategies; 5) Learning-centered approach.

Target Situation Analysis

Analyzing the real contexts and tasks in which learners will use English to determine needs and content.

Necessities (Target Needs)

What learners require to perform well in the target situation (e.g., specific professional tasks).

Lacks (Target Needs)

Deficiencies that prevent optimal performance even if some skills exist.

Wants (Target Needs)

Learners’ personal preferences or desires that are not strictly essential for performance.

Learning Needs

Describe what the learner must do to learn effectively, including required facilities and support.

Curriculum Development Stages: Planning

Identifying issues, forming a development team, and conducting needs assessment and analysis.

Needs Assessment

Process of identifying gaps between current and desired future states and prioritizing attention and resources.

Sources of Information in Needs Assessment

Program Administrators, Content Area Instructors, and Students provide essential input.

Questionnaires

Economical data-collection method; questions must be clear and understandable to yield reliable information.

Interviews

Flexible data-collection method; allows real-time question adjustment and clarification.

Information Sharing

Disseminating gathered needs data among colleagues and instructors involved in ESP planning.