ESP an approach to motivate and enhance the reading comprehension level of EFL students at the University of Cuenca

Abstract

English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is a learner-centered approach to teaching English as an additional language, which focuses on developing English communication skills in a specific discipline, such as accounting, management, education, law, engineering, technology, health, medicine and so on. ESP is based on designing courses to meet specific learners' needs and interests. In this context, the purpose of the present study was to establish the effects ESP had over the English reading comprehension level in a class of 25 Psychology students at the University of Cuenca. Both quantitative and qualitative data collection instruments were used to gather information for this research. Results show there was evidence of an improvement in the reading comprehension level as well as in the development of the other language skills. Furthermore, according to the students’ perceptions, they felt motivated and interested in reading texts related to their needs and interests. In sum, to apply ESP approach in EFL contexts can be meaningful for university students in order for them to become more competitive and independent professionals; therefore, it is the English teacher’s responsibility to be sensitive to learners’ needs and their learning contexts.