ESP- Needs Analysis for Evaluating the Unified English Language Syllabus of Khartoum State Vocational Training Centers

Abstract

This study aims to investigate and evaluate the unified English language syllabus of Khartoum State vocational training centers to see to what extent it meets the trainees’ needs. To achieve that the study sets four hypotheses: which suggest that the current English language syllabus does not sufficiently meet the trainee’s vocational purposes. ,and that the teaching and administrative staffs at the training centers are not sufficiently satisfied with the current English language syllabus. The study adopts the descriptive analytical methodology, with a questionnaire for 50 trainees, 9 English language trainers, alongside a structured interview for 3 administrative staff. The key findings of the study are: The current English language syllabus does not sufficiently meet the trainees’ vocational purposes. The trainees will be sufficiently motivated to learn English language through a course that concentrates more on technical language. Teaching a syllabus meeting the trainees, and the vocational purpose will satisfy the trainer. The vocational training’s general administration is interested in making some amendments to the current syllabus so as to meet the trainees’ vocational needs. It is also aware that the current English language syllabus lacks the sufficient amount of technical vocabulary. The general administration of vocational training is ready to discuss the suggested syllabus, In addition it supports any positive changes in the current syllabus that help trainees to learning English. The study recommends: The current English language syllabus should be provided with sufficient amount of technical vocabulary to meet the trainees’ needs. Trainees’ expectations being taught sufficient amount of technical vocabulary at the preparatory course should be considered. To motivate the trainees in learning English language it is recommended that the course should concentrate on the language they might encounter at work field. Further studies are suggested: On ESP- needs analysis in broader way. On the opinions and experiences of the trainees and English language trainers about the suggested syllabus to examine whether the current study is effective.