Customizing Your Language Learning: English for Specific Purposes
When we decide to learn a language, we all have a goal in mind. Be it academics, career growth,
tourism, enhancing communication skills, or building professionalism - different humans have
different goals. Similarly, different goals have different languages. You cannot use a general
knowledge of English in a professional set-up. Or you cannot use complicated professional
language to communicate with people while you are on a tour. So you need to define your goal
before going for a language learning course. But what after then? Are there courses that serve
different goals? Yes! English For Specific Purpose or ESP.
Understanding English for Specific Purposes (ESP)
ESP courses are tailored to meet the needs of the group of learners. It focuses on providing
knowledge of the language based on the fields that students choose. The teachers who take the
classes have expertise in different fields.
ESP originated in the early 1960s when the need to give instructions in English in various fields
like business, medicine, engineering, and technology increased. Since English became the common
language connecting the world, the need to learn English for a specific purpose emerged.
Types of ESP Courses
There are many types of ESP courses such as English for Academic Purposes, English for Business
and Commerce, English for Specific Professions, English for Tourism and Hospitality, English for
Science and Technology, and English for Aviation.
Benefits of ESP Courses
- Improved Language Skills: Since the course is based on specific fields, it helps the
learners to enhance their speaking skills and communication skills.
- Career Advancement: ESP courses focus on specific fields of career, helping
individuals grow in their careers, especially in a globalized world where English is
crucial.
- Academic Success: ESP courses for academic purposes help students improve their
communication and written skills, preparing them for university studies in English-speaking
countries.
- Avoiding Misunderstandings: Learners in ESP courses learn phrases, vocabulary, and
manners required to be professional in their field, avoiding misunderstandings and
miscommunication.
We hope this detailed explanation of the needs and benefits of English for Specific Purposes will
be enough to convince you to enroll in the course. But remember that before registering, you
need to figure out your field of interest. Only then will you benefit from this course.