Journal of English for Specific Purposes Praxis

Journal of English for Specific Purposes Praxis

A Needs Analysis (NA) of Iranian Law ESP Textbooks

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of English Language, Faculty of Foreign Languages, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of English Teaching and Translation, Faculty of Persian and Foreign Languages, Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of English Language, Faculty of Foreign Languages, Roudehen Branch, Islamic Azad University, Roudehen, Iran
4 Department of English Teaching and Translation,Faculty of Persian and Foreign Languages, Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
This study aimed at exploring whether the English textbook employed by law students meets their needs in real-world contexts. The study involved 27 M.A. and 29 B.A. law students chosen based on convenience sampling procedure from the Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch and Science and Culture University, encompassing both male and female participants. Data collection was carried out utilizing Basturkmen’s (1998) needs analysis (NA) questionnaire for the students. The results of Needs Analysis questionnaire revealed a broad spectrum of needs among the participants, who highlighted the importance of technical English for communication in both academic and professional settings. The statistical analysis indicated that 79% of law students prefer to employ Persian in the class. Nonetheless, a significant majority of students agreed or strongly agreed that “using English indicates prestige and civilization.” Both groups acknowledged the importance of writing skills for their careers. M.A. students, more than B.A. students, stressed the necessity of English proficiency for comprehending lectures in English. Additionally, both groups distinguished the significance of reinforcing their listening and reading skills. The outcomes of this study are significant for ESP instructors, law students, and curriculum planners, recommending valuable insights into how well ESP course materials meet student requirements.
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