Engaging Students in Doing Research – Evaluation of the ESP Course Project Learning Outcomes

Abstract

The current study seeks to examine the learning outcomes of an ESP course project intended for MA students of Management and Human Resources. The project´s aim is to create learning opportunities that are perceived as relevant by students in terms of progress in language proficiency, field subject knowledge, developing professional skills, and personal growth. The main priority is to integrate the current Business English course curriculum (C1) with real-life tasks in real-life settings that are considered authentic and relevant enough to increase student engagement and motivation in learning. The presented study examines the affective learning outcomes (students´ perceptions of the project assignment benefits and the experience of doing research), cognitive outcomes (students´ perceptions of the language and subject knowledge growth), and behavioural ones (skills and engagement). The project evaluation results will be used to enhance students´ satisfaction with the ESP course and improve the project assignment and its procedures.