ESP MATERIAL DEVELOPMENT PROCESS OF ENGLISH INSTRUCTORS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

One of the branches in English Language Teaching (ELT) has been English for Specific

Purposes (ESP) since its emergence in 1960s and this area consists of numerous sub- branches such as Engineering, Nursing and Military. As differently from General English

(GE), material development is a requirement in Military English (ME) education and the biggest responsibility belongs to English teachers. In the literature, it is stated that the teachers have difficulty in preparing materials while having various opportunities that they have. There is a paucity in the studies focusing on material development and ESP within the frame of ME. Therefore, the present study investigates the challenges that English instructors face and the opportunities that they have during their material development process. The sample included 32 English instructors who have been working in a state university. The study was conducted within the frame of mixed method research design and

two data collection tools were applied. First, likert scale was collected, and then semi- structured interviews were conducted during face-to-face meetings. The quantitative part of

the study was analysed with the help of descriptive statistics and qualitative part was analysed through content analysis. The results of the study demonstrated there are various challenges such as limited time, proper feedback and resources whereas there are some opportunities such as collaboration among colleagues and gaining experience. In the light of the findings of the study, several implications and recommendations related to teacher education and ESP material development process are presented through the study.