A Needs Analysis of Academic English Language Skills among ESL Postgraduate Scholars in Jhang District

Abstract

Academic success in ESL requires English language proficiency especially on postgraduate research scholars in Pakistan. This is a qualitative research examining the. English language learning needs of ESL MPhil research scholars in Jhang, concentrating on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills needed in academic and research purposes. Data were gathered as the result of semi-structured interviews conducted with 30 participants and were then analyzed based on a thematic analysis in order to determine patterns and recurring themes. The results show that the respondents have serious issues associated with vocabulary and grammar, sentence structure, comprehension, fluency, and pronunciation, which affect their reading research papers, writing academic papers, presenting research, speaking to supervisors, and participating in professional and international partnerships. The research paper gives prominence to the relevance of a systematic needs analysis in designing learner-centered English language programs that suit the needs of postgraduate scholars in specific academic and research areas. Discussions on implications that may be applied in curriculum development, institute teaching methods and institutional support are provided with a focus on how English as an Academic Purpose (EAP) can be used to help ESL scholars increase their academic performance and research potential in semi-urban settings.