Engineers' writing and speaking needs: Towards a needs-based language curriculum

Abstract

Language planning and teaching practices have recently shifted towards designing syllabi and curricula based on learners needs. Therefore, this study aims to determine the language needs of engineers, which will serve as the foundation for developing a course plan that aims to develop the speaking and writing skills of future engineers. This paper is anchored on the concept of Needs Analysis (NA), which refers to the activities that are involved in collecting information that will serve as the basis for developing a curriculum that will meet the needs of a particular group of students. One hundred and two engineers answered a survey questionnaire, and six of them were interviewed. The survey revealed that the engineers' writing needs include writing emails, business letters, technical reports, memos, and project proposals, while their speaking needs include communicating with their colleagues and superiors face-to-face and through telephone, presenting research papers, and delivering lectures in seminars and training workshops. Further, based on the interview results, the engineers said that they need more training to enhance their skills in writing business letters and business proposals. They suggested simulation activities to improve their oral communication skills during training. The engineers emphasized that they witnessed one's professional success as being highly dependent on oral and written communication skills.