Investigating the Problems of ESP Syllabus in Sudanese Colleges of Agriculture

Abstract

This study aims at investigating the problems of ESP syllabus in Sudanese col-leges of agriculture with reference to Sinnar college of Agriculture. The descrip-tive analytical method was adopted in conducting the study. Two questionnaires and an interview were chosen as tools for data collection. Teachers’ questionnaire was chosen as one of the tools for data collection. The questionnaire was distributed to teachers of ESP in different Sudanese Universities. Students’ questionnaire was distributed to students of college of agriculture at University of Sinnar. Statistical Package for social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis. The interview was used as an additional tool for data collection. The statistical analysis for the results of the questionnaires and experts’ interview showed that syllabuses of Sudanese agriculture colleges do not help students comprehend language skills as they lack function structures and vocabulary. The teaching is not based on a direct syllabus. The findings also revealed that both teachers and students are not satisfied by the teaching materials of agriculture. The syllabus suffers weakness in many aspects of language. The results of the interview revealed that students have real problems in using language. Based on the findings, the study recommended that ESP Syllabi at Sudanese agriculture colleges should be changed so as to suit students’ needs. Teachers should be trained in teaching ESP. There is need for continuous evaluation system that gives scope for improvement in agriculture contexts.