Bridging Classrooms and Careers: Exploring Students' Perspectives on English for Specific Purposes Instruction

Authors

  • Widya Syafitri Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3810-7407
  • Febria Sri Artika Central Queensland University, Australia
  • Muthia Rahman Sekolah Tinggi Ekonomi Syariah Manna Wa Salwa, Indonesia
  • Cantika Atma Triannisa Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v17i2.6889

Keywords:

English for Specific Purposes, Professional communication, Educational technology, Activity Theory, Curriculum improvement

Abstract

Globalization has heightened the need for English proficiency in specialized fields such as economics, hotel management, and tourism. English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses aim to equip students with relevant language skills, but questions remain about their effectiveness and alignment with industry needs. This study investigates students’ perceptions of ESP course design and delivery across five universities in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Data were collected through surveys and interviews with 108 students, focusing on course credit hours, instructional materials, teaching strategies, and the use of technology. Findings show that 65% of students preferred interactive methods, such as simulations and case studies, over traditional lectures. Students also emphasized the need for more practical writing tasks and role-playing opportunities. Limited access to technological tools, including virtual trading platforms, was identified as a barrier to effective learning. Using Activity Theory, the study examines the interplay between students, instructional tools, institutional rules, and learning goals. It highlights challenges such as insufficient credit hours and unequal access to technology. Interactive methods and collaborative tasks emerged as effective strategies for building job-relevant language skills. Enhancing ESP programs requires increasing credit hours, integrating advanced technological tools, and aligning content with professional contexts. These recommendations aim to improve the impact of ESP education and better prepare students for global careers.

Author Biography

Cantika Atma Triannisa, Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi

Student of English Department

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Published

2025-04-14

How to Cite

Syafitri, W., Artika, F. S., Rahman, M., & Triannisa, C. A. (2025). Bridging Classrooms and Careers: Exploring Students’ Perspectives on English for Specific Purposes Instruction. AL-ISHLAH: Jurnal Pendidikan, 17(2), 1796–1805. https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v17i2.6889

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 2 (2025): JUNE 2025

Section

Articles

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