Curriculum Reform Due to Project-Based Learning Methodology Implementation in Teaching an ESP Course to Russian University Natural Science Students

Abstract

This chapter investigates the didactic potential of a project-based learning (PjBL) methodology as a means of modernizing curriculum and improving an ESP course at the university level. The chapter outlines in detail the main elements of the negotiated teaching framework and discusses why such a methodology is appropriate for teaching communicative competence and developing learners' performance in English in a professional context. It also presents practical devices for the implementation of the designed conceptual framework. The first part of the chapter focuses on outlining methodological aspects of the undertaken case study. The second part concentrates on the quantitative and qualitative assessment of the results of the PjBL framework intervention. Within this context, a discussion about the influence of the PjBL course implementation on 48 students is provided. The authors also specify some factors contributing to the effectiveness of the development of learners' target skills attributed to the introduction of the featured model for the ESP project-based course.