A Needs Analysis for Professional Nurses: A Basis for Curriculum Design and Material Development

Authors

  • Julerita Babao
  • Edwin Cubero

Keywords:

English for Specific Purposes, Needs Analysis, English Language, Nurses, Material Development

Abstract

Introduction

This study explores the need for an ESP course for professional nurses. With several factors such as demand for nurses abroad and the growing importance of the good command of the English language in any workplace, the researchers are prompted to conduct a needs analysis among professional nurses in selected hospitals in Batangas City that will serve as a strong basis for an ESP course.

 

Methods

In the conduct of the study, the researchers focus on identifying the profile of the respondents, specifying how often they speak English in their work and contact situations and determining the type of English speaking courses they prefer. The results then serve as the center of the implementation of ESP and its design and materials. To obtain reliable results, the study makes use of the triangulation method. It employs a survey questionnaire, an interview, and a documentary analysis.

 

Results

Based on the study conducted, it reveals that nurse respondents rate speaking as the skill they excel at least. Since speaking is considered to be a key tool among individuals in the delivery of health care services, they affirm that they need to learn English so they can talk with foreign patients with ease and address their concerns. This is corroborated by the findings about contact situations they are required to use English. The findings show that giving patients advice and administering medications top the lists of situations they use English more. Given the opportunity to learn English courses, the respondents prefer the use of group activity which they believe to be the easiest. Regarding their reason for learning, the result confirms their desire to work abroad.

 

Discussions

Upon knowing the needs and wants of the learners through needs analysis, ESP practitioners and researchers themselves can decide on the activities and learning materials to use. Educational institutions may integrate ESP in their curriculum to better prepare students for their field. Further, public and private organizations that have already offered ESP may strengthen its program through continuous research on the needs of students.

Published

2019-12-18