This study explored the perception of Secretaryship and Management students about English Language generally; identified their skill needs in the subject and suggests strategies for improving those skills. A descriptive survey research design was adopted and involved 60 participants. Using the systematic random sampling technique, 20 students were selected from each level of study (Level 100 –300) in the Higher National Diploma in Secretaryship and Management Studies Programme at the Wa Technical University. A total number of 60 questionnaires was administered and the same number was retrieved and used in this study. The data were analysed using Microsoft Excel with the results presented in frequency tables and graphs. The study found that participants perceive English Language as a difficult subject; nonetheless, it is indispensable in their academic and professional lives. They affirmed writing, speaking, reading and listening skills as the most important skill needs and identified speaking as the most challenging skill to acquire. The study also found that surprisingly, majority (57%) of the participants was not conversant with email and related applications in English relevant to the modern secretary. The study recommends the regular practice of speaking, writing, reading, and listening as some of the measures to help improve upon the English language skills of the students. They should also be equipped with some basic knowledge in the use of modern information technological tools like email and PowerPoint to enhance their professionalism.
The study aims to explore the problems and difficulties of students speaking
English language for Engineering students hailing from rural background. The study
moreover aims to explore the causes of such difficulties. The researcher designed
certain tasks based on Task based language teaching on the sample of the study.
These tasks are applied for each student to investigate speaking difficulties and the
causes of such difficulties. The results showed and indicated that there are some
difficulties in speaking English due to fear of making mistakes, anxiety, shyness and
lack of confidence. The researcher identified to provide environment support and
encourage the students to speak English frequently
Reticence of Speaking in a Maldivian ESL Classroom Causes and Solutionijtsrd
Although teachers adopt various approaches in their teaching to improve the language skills of the students, reticent behaviour of the students in speaking lessons often frustrates teachers. Hence, the present study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the reticent behaviour of students in ESL classrooms, strategies used by Maldivian students to cope with speaking anxiety and how teachers attempt to alleviate the problem of reticence in ESL classroom. To fulfill this aim, the present paper addresses the following questions 1 what do Maldivian students and teachers notice as the factors contributing the reticence in speaking in ESL classrooms 2 What strategies do Maldivian learners use to cope with speaking anxiety 3 What strategies do Maldivian teachers adopt to effectively cope with student’s reticent behaviour of speaking in ESL class The data was taken from seven participants four teachers and three students through face to face interview. Further, classroom observations was done to gain more information about the behviour being studied. The research findings showed that different social psychological factors, fluency factors and cognitive factors make the learners to be reticent in ESL classroom. Furthermore, students employ various strategies, such as avoidance strategy, seeking help from friends, using mother tongue, writing and rehearsing what they want to say in order to cope with the problem of reticence. The findings also showed that teachers attempt to alleviate the problem by altering the teaching methods and building a stress free classroom environment for the students. Surprisingly, the results showed that teachers give less importance to speaking skill as it not tested in exam. Therefore, it is recommended to include speaking in when Maldivian students do IGCSE exam. Suhana Abdul Shakoor "Reticence of Speaking in a Maldivian ESL Classroom: Causes and Solution" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-1 , December 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd38208.pdf Paper URL : https://www.ijtsrd.com/humanities-and-the-arts/education/38208/reticence-of-speaking-in-a-maldivian-esl-classroom-causes-and-solution/suhana-abdul-shakoor
Reconsidering english language teaching in vernacular medium schools of india...Atiya Khan
Although there have been recurring reforms in the policy of Indian government towards the teaching and learning of English and currently English is taught as a compulsory subject in all schools, students from vernacular-medium schools suffer as apart from total unfamiliarity with the language, the pedagogies used to teach English do not enable them to speak the language fluently. Albeit, the demands in India for better teaching and learning of English are not being met meaningfully in vernacular-medium schools. Vernacular-medium students in India mostly leave school speaking a language that would not be recognised in the job market. This paper is a review of related literature to suggest a reconsideration of English language teaching in vernacular-medium schools of India with an emphasis on employability.
Qualifying Teachers of English for Specific Purposes to Meet the Global Chall...idhasaeful
As institutions of higher education prepare graduates to strive for the more competitive job market, teachers of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) play a pivotal role to nurture and facilitate students’ English competence for career advancement. It is commonly hypothesized that ESP teachers require more than that of general English instructors are capable of in language teaching-related pedagogy. However, limited numbers of such studies have been conducted in Indonesia as a potentially developing country in the world. This quantitative study aims to portray ESP teachers' perceived qualifications, benefits of the program instruction, and its relevance to meet the challenges of the globalization. Initial findings of this study reveal that almost all of the respondents acknowledged the necessity of ESP teachers to demonstrate capacity in educational principle, language learning theory, Linguistics competence, material and media design, classroom management, intercultural understanding, language assessment, and classroom-based research inquiry. It is perceived that successful ESP teaching is significantly required for graduates to excel the job market, increase professionalism at work, and facilitate the nation competitive edge. Furthermore, ESP programs are considered relevant to meet the present and future challenges of globalization. More elaborative findings will be obtained, specifically addressing difference-variance of perceptions according to respondents’ education background and teaching experience.
FACTOR ANALYSIS OF ENGLISH COMMUNICATION COMPETENCY AMONG MALAYSIAN TECHNOLOG...IAEME Publication
This paper aimed to determine factors influencing English communication
competency among Malaysian university undergraduates from technology
departments at Universiti Tun Hussain Onn Malaysia (UTHM). A survey was
administered to a random sample of 102 undergraduates. Factor analysis was applied
to determine the underlying dimensions that influence English competency among the
students. The findings revealed four critical factors: mother tongue interference, lack
of confidence, lack of practice, and home environment. Thus, students need to be
encouraged to communicate in English at the university and home to provide wider
language practice opportunities to master communication skills in English and
perform well in the technology courses.
The study aims to explore the problems and difficulties of students speaking
English language for Engineering students hailing from rural background. The study
moreover aims to explore the causes of such difficulties. The researcher designed
certain tasks based on Task based language teaching on the sample of the study.
These tasks are applied for each student to investigate speaking difficulties and the
causes of such difficulties. The results showed and indicated that there are some
difficulties in speaking English due to fear of making mistakes, anxiety, shyness and
lack of confidence. The researcher identified to provide environment support and
encourage the students to speak English frequently
Reticence of Speaking in a Maldivian ESL Classroom Causes and Solutionijtsrd
Although teachers adopt various approaches in their teaching to improve the language skills of the students, reticent behaviour of the students in speaking lessons often frustrates teachers. Hence, the present study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the reticent behaviour of students in ESL classrooms, strategies used by Maldivian students to cope with speaking anxiety and how teachers attempt to alleviate the problem of reticence in ESL classroom. To fulfill this aim, the present paper addresses the following questions 1 what do Maldivian students and teachers notice as the factors contributing the reticence in speaking in ESL classrooms 2 What strategies do Maldivian learners use to cope with speaking anxiety 3 What strategies do Maldivian teachers adopt to effectively cope with student’s reticent behaviour of speaking in ESL class The data was taken from seven participants four teachers and three students through face to face interview. Further, classroom observations was done to gain more information about the behviour being studied. The research findings showed that different social psychological factors, fluency factors and cognitive factors make the learners to be reticent in ESL classroom. Furthermore, students employ various strategies, such as avoidance strategy, seeking help from friends, using mother tongue, writing and rehearsing what they want to say in order to cope with the problem of reticence. The findings also showed that teachers attempt to alleviate the problem by altering the teaching methods and building a stress free classroom environment for the students. Surprisingly, the results showed that teachers give less importance to speaking skill as it not tested in exam. Therefore, it is recommended to include speaking in when Maldivian students do IGCSE exam. Suhana Abdul Shakoor "Reticence of Speaking in a Maldivian ESL Classroom: Causes and Solution" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-1 , December 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd38208.pdf Paper URL : https://www.ijtsrd.com/humanities-and-the-arts/education/38208/reticence-of-speaking-in-a-maldivian-esl-classroom-causes-and-solution/suhana-abdul-shakoor
Reconsidering english language teaching in vernacular medium schools of india...Atiya Khan
Although there have been recurring reforms in the policy of Indian government towards the teaching and learning of English and currently English is taught as a compulsory subject in all schools, students from vernacular-medium schools suffer as apart from total unfamiliarity with the language, the pedagogies used to teach English do not enable them to speak the language fluently. Albeit, the demands in India for better teaching and learning of English are not being met meaningfully in vernacular-medium schools. Vernacular-medium students in India mostly leave school speaking a language that would not be recognised in the job market. This paper is a review of related literature to suggest a reconsideration of English language teaching in vernacular-medium schools of India with an emphasis on employability.
Qualifying Teachers of English for Specific Purposes to Meet the Global Chall...idhasaeful
As institutions of higher education prepare graduates to strive for the more competitive job market, teachers of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) play a pivotal role to nurture and facilitate students’ English competence for career advancement. It is commonly hypothesized that ESP teachers require more than that of general English instructors are capable of in language teaching-related pedagogy. However, limited numbers of such studies have been conducted in Indonesia as a potentially developing country in the world. This quantitative study aims to portray ESP teachers' perceived qualifications, benefits of the program instruction, and its relevance to meet the challenges of the globalization. Initial findings of this study reveal that almost all of the respondents acknowledged the necessity of ESP teachers to demonstrate capacity in educational principle, language learning theory, Linguistics competence, material and media design, classroom management, intercultural understanding, language assessment, and classroom-based research inquiry. It is perceived that successful ESP teaching is significantly required for graduates to excel the job market, increase professionalism at work, and facilitate the nation competitive edge. Furthermore, ESP programs are considered relevant to meet the present and future challenges of globalization. More elaborative findings will be obtained, specifically addressing difference-variance of perceptions according to respondents’ education background and teaching experience.
FACTOR ANALYSIS OF ENGLISH COMMUNICATION COMPETENCY AMONG MALAYSIAN TECHNOLOG...IAEME Publication
This paper aimed to determine factors influencing English communication
competency among Malaysian university undergraduates from technology
departments at Universiti Tun Hussain Onn Malaysia (UTHM). A survey was
administered to a random sample of 102 undergraduates. Factor analysis was applied
to determine the underlying dimensions that influence English competency among the
students. The findings revealed four critical factors: mother tongue interference, lack
of confidence, lack of practice, and home environment. Thus, students need to be
encouraged to communicate in English at the university and home to provide wider
language practice opportunities to master communication skills in English and
perform well in the technology courses.
3. 7 article june edition vol 9 no 1 2016 register journal iain salatigaFaisal Pak
REGISTER JOURNAL has the perspectives of languages and language teachings. This journal aims at presenting and discussing some outstanding issues dealing with language and language teachings
This journal encompasses original research articles, and short communications, including:
Phonology
Morphology
Syntax
Semantics
Pragmatics
Psycholinguistics
Sociolinguistics
Discourse Analysis
Linguistics in Education
Linguistics in Literature
Language Acquisitions
English Language Teaching (ELT)
English as Second Language (ESL)
English as Foreign Language (EFL)
English for Specific Purpose (ESP)
5. 7 articles for vol 8 no 1 june 2015 register journal iain salatigaFaisal Pak
REGISTER JOURNAL has the perspectives of languages and language teachings. This journal aims at presenting and discussing some outstanding issues dealing with language and language teachings
This journal encompasses original research articles, and short communications, including:
Phonology
Morphology
Syntax
Semantics
Pragmatics
Psycholinguistics
Sociolinguistics
Discourse Analysis
Linguistics in Education
Linguistics in Literature
Language Acquisitions
English Language Teaching (ELT)
English as Second Language (ESL)
English as Foreign Language (EFL)
English for Specific Purpose (ESP)
English Language Teaching in Indonesia (TEFLIN)
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Improving the Productive Skills of the Students through Selected Teaching Str...ijtsrd
This paper focuses on the ways to highlight the needs for developing the productive skills of the fresh students, at the University of Computer Studies Pakokku , Myanmar. This paper explores the strategies to enable the learners to communicate among themselves in their daily life. It also includes an eclectic approach to the current methodologies and the implementation of teaching writing and speaking strategies. Then needs analysis is used in order to investigate the actual needs of the students. To achieve successful learning in class, suggested activities are also provided. As writing and speaking have many features in common, by deliberately controlling a number of variables, language teachers can make writing closer to speaking and improve students' speaking skill through writing activities and vice visa. This paper recommends the procedures and strategies as well as communicative activities to be of great help for developing the students' productive skills. Khin Hnin Si | Pwint Oo Khin "Improving the Productive Skills of the Students through Selected Teaching Strategies" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-5 , August 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd27956.pdfPaper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/other-scientific-research-area/literature/27956/improving-the-productive-skills-of-the-students-through-selected-teaching-strategies/khin-hnin-si
Anthony Fitzpatrick presents on behalf of TIRF at the 2012 TESOL Convention in Philadelphia. In his presentation, Fitzpatrick discusses the results of a study TIRF commissioned. The paper investigates English language training programs for the international workforce. Dick Tucker is the discussant for the presentation.
This paper attempts to assess the speech ability of the grade 10 students in Jose Sanvictores Sr. National School in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur. It uses random sampling which identifies 70 respondents. This study used descriptive - correlational method in order to determine the level of speech ability of Grade 10 students. The study dealt with the following objectives to determine the profile of the respondents in terms of gender, language facility, parent's educational attainment, media preference, communication practice, use of English and media preference to identify the level of oral language proficiency as to grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and fluency and to assess the significant relationship between the profile of the participants and the level of speech ability. Marissa Regalado-Villamon "Speech Ability of Grade 10 Students" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-1 , December 2018, URL: http://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd18973.pdf
http://www.ijtsrd.com/home-science/education/18973/speech-ability-of-grade-10-students/marissa-regalado-villamon
The Effect of CALL on VocabularyLearning and Reading Comprehension of Iranian...iosrjce
This study aimed at investigating the effect of a computerized program on developing vocabulary and
reading comprehension of Iranian EFL learners. For this aim, the researcher chose a representative sample of
sixty first grade female high school students in Bushehr, south of Iran. The participants were divided into two
equivalent groups and each group consisted of 30 students. The researcher used three instruments: 1) an
achievement test for reading comprehension 2) vocabulary test 3) a computerized program for vocabulary and
reading texts included in the English book 1 of high school. The results of the study revealed that the
computerized program was effective to develop the vocabulary and reading comprehension skills for first
grade high school students. In the light of these findings, the researcher recommends that EFL Iranian teachers
should use CALL as a tool for enhancing students' vocabulary and reading comprehension in particular and
learning the language in general.
Effects of the Computer Mediated Communication Interaction on Vocabulary Impr...TELKOMNIKA JOURNAL
This study examined the effect of CMC interaction on Iranian EFL learners’ vocabulary improvement. The study was carried out on the basis of a comparative design and tried to compare CMC with face to-face interactions in the Iranian EFL learners in order to see whether the learners’ lexical knowledge improved by the CMC interaction. Participants of the study were advanced learners studying in a language institute. The Oxford placement test was used to determine the Iranian EFL learners’ proficiency level and ensure a homogeneous sample. Then, the participants were randomly assigned to one control group (face-to-face interaction) and one experimental group (CMC interaction) in order to compare the effect of CMC on the learners’ vocabulary improvement. The learners took a pre-test to select 12 target lexical items, treatment activity to perform information-gap task, and two immediate and delayed post-tests for assessing the acquisition of new lexical items. Yahoo Messenger was used to provide the chat communication. The research provided evidence that there was a significant relationship between the use of CMC interaction and face-to-face interaction with regard to improvement in the learners’ vocabulary learning. The result indicated that the learners’ vocabulary learning improved more in CMC interaction in comparison to face-to-face interaction. In addition, there was a significant difference in negotiating the meaning of new lexical items through CMC interaction in comparison to face-to-face interaction. Moreover, the results indicated that in terms of signal, the CMC interaction outperformed face-to-face group.
Presentation on "Probing into Unfulfilled Business English Needs: Iranian EFL Learners’ Thirst for Intercultural Business Communication" for the 5th English Language Teaching Conference held at Allameh Tabatabaii University, Tehran, Iran - 2019
An Investigation Into The Prevalence of Code Switching in the Teaching of Nat...IJRESJOURNAL
ABSTRACT: This study examines the functions of code-switching in primary schools by science teachers. In Namibia,English is the official language of instruction for science at primary school. At lower primary, Silozi is the language of instruction. Classroom interaction data was obtained from two science lessons. Analysis of the teachers' code-switching shows that code-switching in the two lessons was vastly different, with little codeswitching in the teacher-facilitated lesson.Evident in other lessons, in which science was taught as a content subjectbut with abstract names that had no corresponding local names in Silozi, there was frequent use of codeswitching for reiteration and message qualification. The direction of the language switch from Silozi to English as well as the proportion of teachersspeaking in English suggests that the official language for teaching is English at upper primary, grade 4 to 7. The science lesson and code-switching is a necessary tool for teachers to achieve teaching goals in content-based lessons involving students who lack proficiency in the instructional language. The study was conducted in five government primary schools in Katima Mulilo, the capital of the Zambezi region in Namibia.The national language is English language, with no exception inscience, mathematics, and language subjects.All Schools are located in a Katima Mulilo-urban. The students are from mixed classes, lower, middle and upper class families with their parents typically working as unemployed single mothers, domestic workers, clerks, nurses, teachers, and accountants. Some of the students could understand English because of their parents‟ educational background or in instances where English is spoken at home.
In the era of globalization, people around the world can have interaction for satisfying their goal in any aspect of life, such as business, politics, social and culture, education, etc. for that reason, the need of English proficiency as a global language becomes a priority. Therefore, it is compulsory for all students in formal education to learn it. In university level, students of the non-English department must study English with varied purposes, depending on their major, at least for two credits. Generally, it is taught to support the basic major or discipline. Consequently, the materials are designed based on their needs, especially later when they get jobs. For this reason, the material adapted is called ESP (English for Specific Purposes) which aims at preparing students to meet the demands of the workplace, i.e. the English skills. It should be more contextual, real life for now and the future. If the material is authentic and in accordance with the needs of learners, they will likely be ready to work as the demands of the employer. With these objectives, the English materials need to be adjusted to the needs of users (stakeholders) so that after graduating from universities, freshmen can directly work or create jobs according to their expertise. This research aims to describe students’ perception of English teaching materials for Management department. A survey was conducted to second-semester students of Management department of Universitas Muria Kudus. The result of the study reveals that the students have a positive perspective on the teaching materials of English for Management Business II. They think affirmatively that the materials have been selected properly in terms of material attraction, usefulness, authenticity, variety, level of difficulty, language skill proportion and the discussed topics. In other words, the materials are appropriate for satisfying Management department students’ need to prepare their future. The implication is the materials should be revised by adding more reading texts of Business English and providing more vocabulary tasks in the real context.
Needs Analysis of an English for Academic Purpose (Eap) Programme: English La...iosrjce
There is need to ensure the production of competent primary English teaching specialists. All
colleges of education in the country are running their programme for this purpose. But the minimum standard
seems lacking in essential ingredients that would guarantee the training of effective primary English teachers. It
is equally realised that effective teaching and learning of this nature constitute functions of a combination of
factors among which are the teacher, the material, learner and the learning situation. This paper focuses on
need analysis as a process and product orientation towards the production of competent primary English
teaching specialists.
3. 7 article june edition vol 9 no 1 2016 register journal iain salatigaFaisal Pak
REGISTER JOURNAL has the perspectives of languages and language teachings. This journal aims at presenting and discussing some outstanding issues dealing with language and language teachings
This journal encompasses original research articles, and short communications, including:
Phonology
Morphology
Syntax
Semantics
Pragmatics
Psycholinguistics
Sociolinguistics
Discourse Analysis
Linguistics in Education
Linguistics in Literature
Language Acquisitions
English Language Teaching (ELT)
English as Second Language (ESL)
English as Foreign Language (EFL)
English for Specific Purpose (ESP)
5. 7 articles for vol 8 no 1 june 2015 register journal iain salatigaFaisal Pak
REGISTER JOURNAL has the perspectives of languages and language teachings. This journal aims at presenting and discussing some outstanding issues dealing with language and language teachings
This journal encompasses original research articles, and short communications, including:
Phonology
Morphology
Syntax
Semantics
Pragmatics
Psycholinguistics
Sociolinguistics
Discourse Analysis
Linguistics in Education
Linguistics in Literature
Language Acquisitions
English Language Teaching (ELT)
English as Second Language (ESL)
English as Foreign Language (EFL)
English for Specific Purpose (ESP)
English Language Teaching in Indonesia (TEFLIN)
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Improving the Productive Skills of the Students through Selected Teaching Str...ijtsrd
This paper focuses on the ways to highlight the needs for developing the productive skills of the fresh students, at the University of Computer Studies Pakokku , Myanmar. This paper explores the strategies to enable the learners to communicate among themselves in their daily life. It also includes an eclectic approach to the current methodologies and the implementation of teaching writing and speaking strategies. Then needs analysis is used in order to investigate the actual needs of the students. To achieve successful learning in class, suggested activities are also provided. As writing and speaking have many features in common, by deliberately controlling a number of variables, language teachers can make writing closer to speaking and improve students' speaking skill through writing activities and vice visa. This paper recommends the procedures and strategies as well as communicative activities to be of great help for developing the students' productive skills. Khin Hnin Si | Pwint Oo Khin "Improving the Productive Skills of the Students through Selected Teaching Strategies" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-5 , August 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd27956.pdfPaper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/other-scientific-research-area/literature/27956/improving-the-productive-skills-of-the-students-through-selected-teaching-strategies/khin-hnin-si
Anthony Fitzpatrick presents on behalf of TIRF at the 2012 TESOL Convention in Philadelphia. In his presentation, Fitzpatrick discusses the results of a study TIRF commissioned. The paper investigates English language training programs for the international workforce. Dick Tucker is the discussant for the presentation.
This paper attempts to assess the speech ability of the grade 10 students in Jose Sanvictores Sr. National School in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur. It uses random sampling which identifies 70 respondents. This study used descriptive - correlational method in order to determine the level of speech ability of Grade 10 students. The study dealt with the following objectives to determine the profile of the respondents in terms of gender, language facility, parent's educational attainment, media preference, communication practice, use of English and media preference to identify the level of oral language proficiency as to grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and fluency and to assess the significant relationship between the profile of the participants and the level of speech ability. Marissa Regalado-Villamon "Speech Ability of Grade 10 Students" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-1 , December 2018, URL: http://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd18973.pdf
http://www.ijtsrd.com/home-science/education/18973/speech-ability-of-grade-10-students/marissa-regalado-villamon
The Effect of CALL on VocabularyLearning and Reading Comprehension of Iranian...iosrjce
This study aimed at investigating the effect of a computerized program on developing vocabulary and
reading comprehension of Iranian EFL learners. For this aim, the researcher chose a representative sample of
sixty first grade female high school students in Bushehr, south of Iran. The participants were divided into two
equivalent groups and each group consisted of 30 students. The researcher used three instruments: 1) an
achievement test for reading comprehension 2) vocabulary test 3) a computerized program for vocabulary and
reading texts included in the English book 1 of high school. The results of the study revealed that the
computerized program was effective to develop the vocabulary and reading comprehension skills for first
grade high school students. In the light of these findings, the researcher recommends that EFL Iranian teachers
should use CALL as a tool for enhancing students' vocabulary and reading comprehension in particular and
learning the language in general.
Effects of the Computer Mediated Communication Interaction on Vocabulary Impr...TELKOMNIKA JOURNAL
This study examined the effect of CMC interaction on Iranian EFL learners’ vocabulary improvement. The study was carried out on the basis of a comparative design and tried to compare CMC with face to-face interactions in the Iranian EFL learners in order to see whether the learners’ lexical knowledge improved by the CMC interaction. Participants of the study were advanced learners studying in a language institute. The Oxford placement test was used to determine the Iranian EFL learners’ proficiency level and ensure a homogeneous sample. Then, the participants were randomly assigned to one control group (face-to-face interaction) and one experimental group (CMC interaction) in order to compare the effect of CMC on the learners’ vocabulary improvement. The learners took a pre-test to select 12 target lexical items, treatment activity to perform information-gap task, and two immediate and delayed post-tests for assessing the acquisition of new lexical items. Yahoo Messenger was used to provide the chat communication. The research provided evidence that there was a significant relationship between the use of CMC interaction and face-to-face interaction with regard to improvement in the learners’ vocabulary learning. The result indicated that the learners’ vocabulary learning improved more in CMC interaction in comparison to face-to-face interaction. In addition, there was a significant difference in negotiating the meaning of new lexical items through CMC interaction in comparison to face-to-face interaction. Moreover, the results indicated that in terms of signal, the CMC interaction outperformed face-to-face group.
Presentation on "Probing into Unfulfilled Business English Needs: Iranian EFL Learners’ Thirst for Intercultural Business Communication" for the 5th English Language Teaching Conference held at Allameh Tabatabaii University, Tehran, Iran - 2019
An Investigation Into The Prevalence of Code Switching in the Teaching of Nat...IJRESJOURNAL
ABSTRACT: This study examines the functions of code-switching in primary schools by science teachers. In Namibia,English is the official language of instruction for science at primary school. At lower primary, Silozi is the language of instruction. Classroom interaction data was obtained from two science lessons. Analysis of the teachers' code-switching shows that code-switching in the two lessons was vastly different, with little codeswitching in the teacher-facilitated lesson.Evident in other lessons, in which science was taught as a content subjectbut with abstract names that had no corresponding local names in Silozi, there was frequent use of codeswitching for reiteration and message qualification. The direction of the language switch from Silozi to English as well as the proportion of teachersspeaking in English suggests that the official language for teaching is English at upper primary, grade 4 to 7. The science lesson and code-switching is a necessary tool for teachers to achieve teaching goals in content-based lessons involving students who lack proficiency in the instructional language. The study was conducted in five government primary schools in Katima Mulilo, the capital of the Zambezi region in Namibia.The national language is English language, with no exception inscience, mathematics, and language subjects.All Schools are located in a Katima Mulilo-urban. The students are from mixed classes, lower, middle and upper class families with their parents typically working as unemployed single mothers, domestic workers, clerks, nurses, teachers, and accountants. Some of the students could understand English because of their parents‟ educational background or in instances where English is spoken at home.
In the era of globalization, people around the world can have interaction for satisfying their goal in any aspect of life, such as business, politics, social and culture, education, etc. for that reason, the need of English proficiency as a global language becomes a priority. Therefore, it is compulsory for all students in formal education to learn it. In university level, students of the non-English department must study English with varied purposes, depending on their major, at least for two credits. Generally, it is taught to support the basic major or discipline. Consequently, the materials are designed based on their needs, especially later when they get jobs. For this reason, the material adapted is called ESP (English for Specific Purposes) which aims at preparing students to meet the demands of the workplace, i.e. the English skills. It should be more contextual, real life for now and the future. If the material is authentic and in accordance with the needs of learners, they will likely be ready to work as the demands of the employer. With these objectives, the English materials need to be adjusted to the needs of users (stakeholders) so that after graduating from universities, freshmen can directly work or create jobs according to their expertise. This research aims to describe students’ perception of English teaching materials for Management department. A survey was conducted to second-semester students of Management department of Universitas Muria Kudus. The result of the study reveals that the students have a positive perspective on the teaching materials of English for Management Business II. They think affirmatively that the materials have been selected properly in terms of material attraction, usefulness, authenticity, variety, level of difficulty, language skill proportion and the discussed topics. In other words, the materials are appropriate for satisfying Management department students’ need to prepare their future. The implication is the materials should be revised by adding more reading texts of Business English and providing more vocabulary tasks in the real context.
Needs Analysis of an English for Academic Purpose (Eap) Programme: English La...iosrjce
There is need to ensure the production of competent primary English teaching specialists. All
colleges of education in the country are running their programme for this purpose. But the minimum standard
seems lacking in essential ingredients that would guarantee the training of effective primary English teachers. It
is equally realised that effective teaching and learning of this nature constitute functions of a combination of
factors among which are the teacher, the material, learner and the learning situation. This paper focuses on
need analysis as a process and product orientation towards the production of competent primary English
teaching specialists.
The aim of this research study is to analyze the appropriateness of the English syllabus according to the true language needs, which is being offered to the students of International Relations Department of Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan. To carry out this research study, students of IR department (Part 1 and 2) have been taken as a sample population to collect required data. To check the appropriateness of the offered English syllabus and existing level of English language competence according to the students’ needs; two research tools have been taken as: test and interview. In order to get the actual feedback from the students, a test consisted of four basic skills of English (listening, speaking, reading and writing) was conducted to 50 students of IR department. Interview was conducted to the teachers of IR department in order to get the actual information about the appropriateness of the English syllabus and the competency level of the students. Collected data through both the sources were analyzed qualitatively as well as quantitatively. The findings from these sources provided the results which were expected before the accomplishment of this research work. The findings of this research advocated that the EAP should be adopted to make the existing syllabus appropriate and need based in order to refine the basic English language skills of the students. This recommended course is very productive for social sciences disciplines of the BZU.
Download luận văn đồ án tốt nghiệp với đề tài: Some Common in Practising Writing Skill among Second Year English Majored Students at Faculty of Foreign Languages of Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh
Full paper-the-academic-writing-performance malik albalawi مالك البلوي malikjabr
Academic Writing performance and Spelling errors of English as A Foreign Language Students at Tabuk University: A case of The Introductory Year Students 2015
The Academic writing performance and Spelling Errors Malik Jabr Albalawi مال...malikjabr
The Academic writing Performance and Spelling Errors of English As Foreign Language Students at Tabuk University: A case of the Introductory Year students:2015
Eil implications for policy and pedagogycjeremysykes
English as an International Language: Implications for Policy and Pedagogy address the issue of how we need to change our overall thinking as English Instructors in a world where more Non-native speakers use English between themselves than native speakers do.
The problems of Fluency in Spoken English among EFL Learners in Saudi Univers...AJHSSR Journal
ABSTRACT : This study aims to investigate the problems and challenges which is usually experienced by
English learner's students in the Saudi universities when trying to speak English. It also checks at the problems
that students face when learning English language in Saudi universities and try to find remedies to this problem.
The research uses a questionnaire, interviews, and descriptive methods in the collection of data about fluency in
English language in universities in KSU as an example. The data was then statistically analyzed using the SPSS
program. The results showed that there are various problems which hinder fluency of English learning in the
universities and among them include: under-qualified teachers, unsuitable teaching materials and the methods
used in teaching are also poor. The other problem is the psychological factor which makes student lack
motivation while learning English. The study also contains ways in which these problems can be handled to
bring efficiency in learning and teaching English in Saudi universities.
KEYWORDS: The challenges of fluency in spoken English among the EFL students.
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI)inventionjournals
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Humanities and Social Science. IJHSSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Humanities and Social Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
There are two types of English teachers in a higher education, English teachers who have English Language Teaching (ELT) background and those who do not have it. It brings about some problems in the teaching instruction and the achievement of the students, as well. This is a theoretical view used as a preliminary study to develop the model to improve English teachers’ competences in a higher education. A modular model proposed by Kumaravadivelu, with his KARDS model seems appropriate to be applied for the English teachers who are assigned to teach higher education students. This model is at first intended for the prospective teachers of L2 (TESOL), but with some modifications, it can be used to improve the competences of in-service English teachers.
Evaluation of Agro-morphological Performances of Hybrid Varieties of Chili Pe...Premier Publishers
In Benin, chilli pepper is a widely consumed as vegetable whose production requires the use of performant varieties. This work assessed, at Parakou and Malanville, the performance of six F1 hybrids of chilli including five imported (Laali, Laser, Nandi, Kranti, Nandita) and one local (De cayenne), in completely randomized block design at four replications and 15 plants per elementary plot. Agro-morphological data were collected and submitted to analysis of variance and factor analysis of mixed data. The results showed the effects of variety, location and their interactions were highly significant for most of the growth, earliness and yield traits. Imported hybrid varieties showed the best performances compared to the local one. Multivariate analysis revealed that 'De cayenne' was earlier, short in size, thin-stemmed, red fruits and less yielding (≈ 1 t.ha-1). The imported hybrids LaaliF1 and KrantiF1 were of strong vegetative vigor, more yielding (> 6 t.ha-1) by developing larger, long and hard fruits. Other hybrids showed intermediate performances. This study highlighted the importance of imported hybrids in improving yield and preservation of chili fruits. However, stability and adaptation analyses to local conditions are necessary for their adoption.
An Empirical Approach for the Variation in Capital Market Price Changes Premier Publishers
The chances of an investor in the stock market depends mainly on some certain decisions in respect to equilibrium prices, which is the condition of a system competing favorably and effectively. This paper considered a stochastic model which was latter transformed to non-linear ordinary differential equation where stock volatility was used as a key parameter. The analytical solution was obtained which determined the equilibrium prices. A theorem was developed and proved to show that the proposed mathematical model follows a normal distribution since it has a symmetric property. Finally, graphical results were presented and the effects of the relevant parameters were discussed.
Influence of Nitrogen and Spacing on Growth and Yield of Chia (Salvia hispani...Premier Publishers
Chia is an emerging cash crop in Kenya and its production is inhibited by lack of agronomic management information. A field experiment was conducted in February-June and May-August 2021, to determine the influence of nitrogen and spacing on growth and yield of Chia. A randomized complete block design with a split plot arrangement was used with four nitrogen rates as the main plots (0, 40, 80, 120 kg N ha-1) and three spacing (30 cm x 15 cm (s1), 30 cm x 30 cm (s2), 50 cm x 50 cm (s3)). Application of 120 kg N ha-1 significantly increased (p≤0.05) vegetative growth and seed yield of Chia. Stem height, branches, stem diameter and leaves increased by 23-28%, 11-13%, 43-55% and 59-88% respectively. Spacing s3 significantly increased (p≤0.05) vegetative growth. An increase of 27-74%, 36-45% and 73-107% was recorded in number of leaves, stem diameter and dry weight, respectively. Chia yield per plant was significantly higher (p≤0.05) in s3. However, when expressed per unit area, s1 significantly produced higher yields. The study recommends 120 kg N ha-1 or higher nitrogen rates and a closer spacing of 15 cm x 30 cm as the best option for Chia production in Kenya.
Enhancing Social Capital During the Pandemic: A Case of the Rural Women in Bu...Premier Publishers
Social capital plays an essential role in empowering people for social and economic change even during the pandemic. A livelihood project of the government was implemented among the members of a women’s association of a disadvantaged upland community in Bukidnon province, Southern Philippines for inclusive development. This study was conducted to determine the influence of some socio-economic attributes and the change in the knowledge level on the social capital of the rural women amidst the pandemic. The activities of the project were implemented considering the health protocols imposed by the government during the health crisis. The findings revealed that the trainings conducted resulted to a positive change in the knowledge level among the rural women. This facilitated the production of vegetables for their households and generated additional income very necessary during the pandemic especially that other economic activities were hindered. Similarly, there was a significant increase in the social capital of the rural women during the last two years. The main occupation, sources of income and their ethnicity significantly influenced the social capital of the rural women. The rural development workers and policymakers must consider the social capital of the group in the implementation of poverty alleviation programs.
Impact of Provision of Litigation Supports through Forensic Investigations on...Premier Publishers
This paper presents an argument through the fraud triangle theory that the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations in relation to corporate fraud cases is adequate for effective prosecution of perpetrators as well as corporate fraud prevention. To support this argument, this study operationalized provision of litigation supports through forensic audit and investigations, data mining for trends and patterns, and fraud data collection and preparation. A sample of 500 respondents was drawn from the population of professional accountants and legal practitioners in Nigeria. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection and this was mailed to the respective respondents. Resulting responses were analyzed using the OLS multiple regression techniques via the SPSS statistical software. The results reveal that the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations, fraud data mining for trends and patterns and fraud data collection and preparation for court proceedings have a positive and significant impact on corporate fraud prevention in Nigeria. This study therefore recommends that regulators should promote the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations in relation to corporate fraud cases in publicly listed firms in Nigeria, as this will help provide reports that are acceptable in court proceedings.
Improving the Efficiency of Ratio Estimators by Calibration WeightingsPremier Publishers
It is observed that the performances of most improved ratio estimators depend on some optimality conditions that need to be satisfied to guarantee better estimator. This paper develops a new approach to ratio estimation that produces a more efficient class of ratio estimators that do not depend on any optimality conditions for optimum performance using calibration weightings. The relative performances of the proposed calibration ratio estimators are compared with a corresponding global [Generalized Regression (GREG)] estimator. Results of analysis showed that the proposed calibration ratio estimators are substantially superior to the traditional GREG-estimator with relatively small bias, mean square error, average length of confidence interval and coverage probability. In general, the proposed calibration ratio estimators are more efficient than all existing estimators considered in the study.
Urban Liveability in the Context of Sustainable Development: A Perspective fr...Premier Publishers
Urbanization and quality of urban life are mutually related and however it varies geographically and regionally. With unprecedented growth of urban centres, challenge against urban development is more in terms of how to enhance quality of urban life and liveability. Making sense of and measuring urban liveability of urban places has become a crucial step in the context of sustainable development paradigm. Geographical regions depict variations in nature of urban development and consequently level of urban liveability. The coastal regain of West Bengal faces unusual challenges caused by increasing urbanization, uncontrolled growth, and expansion of economic activities like tourism and changing environmental quality. The present study offers a perspective on urban liveability of urban places located in coastal region comprising of Purba Medinipur and South 24 Parganas districts. The study uses the liveability standards covering four major pillars- institutional, social, economic and physical and their indicators. This leads to develop a City Liveability Index to rank urban places of the region, higher the index values better the urban liveability. The data for the purpose is collected from various secondary sources. Study finds that the eastern coastal region of the country covering state of West Bengal depicts variations in index of liveability determined by physical, economic, social and institutional indicators.
Transcript Level of Genes Involved in “Rebaudioside A” Biosynthesis Pathway u...Premier Publishers
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a plant which has recently been used widely as a sweetener. This medicinal plant has some components such as diterpenoid glycosides called steviol glycosides [SGs]. Rebaudioside A is a diterpenoid steviol glycoside which is 300 times sweeter than table sugar. This study was done to investigate the effect of GA3 (50 mg/L) on the expression of 14 genes involved in Rebaudioside A biosynthesis pathway in Stevia rebaudiana under in vitro conditions. The expression of DXS remarkably decreased by day 3. Also, probably because of the negative feedback of GA3 on MEP-drived isoprenes, GGDS transcript level reached its lowest amount after GA3 treatment. The abundance of DXR, CMS, CMK, MCS, and CDPS transcripts showed a significant increase at various days after this treatment. A significant drop in the expression levels of KS and UGT85C2 is detected during the first day. However, expression changes of HDR and KD were not remarkable. Results revealed that the level of transcript of UGT74G1 and UGT76G1 up regulated significantly 4 and 2 times higher than control, respectively. However, more research needs to shed more light on the mechanism of GA3 on gene expression of MEP pathway.
Multivariate Analysis of Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) Clones on Mor...Premier Publishers
Information on genetic variability for biochemical characters is a prerequisite for improvement of tea quality. Thirteen introduced tea clones characterized with objective; assessing tea clones based on morphological characters at Melko and Gera research stations. The study was conducted during 2017/18 cropping season on experimental plots in RCBD with three replications. Data recorded on morphological traits like days from pruning to harvest, height to first branch, stem diameter, leaf serration density, leaf length, leaf width, leaf size, petiole length, leaf ratio, internode length, shoot length, number of shoot, canopy diameter, hundred shoot weight, fresh leaf yield per tree. Cluster analysis of morphological trait grouped into four clusters indicated, the existence of divergence among the tested clones. The maximum inter-cluster distance was between clusters I and IV (35.27) while the minimum inter cluster distance was observed between clusters I and II (7.8).Principal components analysis showed that the first five principal components with eigenvalues greater than one accounted 86.45% for 15 morphological traits. Generally, the study indicated presence of variability for several morphological traits. However, high morphological variation between clones is not a guarantee for a high genetic variation; therefore, molecular studies need to be considered as complementary to biochemical studies.
Causes, Consequences and Remedies of Juvenile Delinquency in the Context of S...Premier Publishers
This research work was designed to examine nature of juvenile offences committed by juveniles, causes of juvenile delinquency, consequences of juvenile delinquency and remedies for juvenile delinquency in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa with specific reference to Eritrea. Left unchecked, juvenile delinquents on the streets engage in petty theft, take alcohol or drugs, rape women, rob people at night involve themselves in criminal gangs and threaten the public at night. To shed light on the problem of juvenile delinquency in the Sub-Saharan region data was collected through primary and secondary sources. A sample size of 70 juvenile delinquents was selected from among 112 juvenile delinquents in remand at the Asmara Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in the Eritrean capital. The study was carried out through coded self-administered questionnaires administered to a sample of 70 juvenile delinquents. The survey evidence indicates that the majority of the juvenile respondents come either from families constructed by unmarried couples or separated or divorced parents where largely the father is missing in the home or dead. The findings also indicate that children born out of wedlock, families led by single mothers, lack of fatherly role models, poor parental-child relationships and negative peer group influence as dominant causes of juvenile infractions. The implication is that broken and stressed families are highly likely to be the breeding grounds for juvenile delinquency. The survey evidence indicates that stealing, truancy or absenteeism from school, rowdy or unruly behavior at school, free-riding in public transportation, damaging the book of fellow students and beating other young persons are the most common forms of juvenile offenses. It is therefore, recommended that parents and guardians should exercise proper parental supervision and give adequate care to transmit positive societal values to children. In addition, the government, the police, prosecution and courts, non-government organizations, parents, teachers, religious leaders, education administrators and other stakeholders should develop a child justice system that strives to prevent children from entering deeper into the criminal justice process.
The Knowledge of and Attitude to and Beliefs about Causes and Treatments of M...Premier Publishers
Stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness are a common occurrence in the Sub-Saharan region including Eritrea. Numerous studies from Sub-Saharan Africa suggest that stigma and discrimination are major problems in the community, with negative attitudes and behavior towards people with mental illness being widespread. In order to assess the whether such negative attitudes persist in the context of Eritrea this study explored the knowledge and perceptions of 90 Eritrean university students at the College of Business and Economics, the University of Asmara regarding the causes and remedies of mental illness A qualitative method involving coded self-administered questionnaires administered to a sample of 90 university students to collecting data at the end of 2019. The survey evidence points that almost 50% of the respondents had contact with a mentally ill person suggesting that the significant number of the respondents experienced a first-hand encounter and knowledge of mental illness in their family and community. The findings show an overall greater science-based understanding of the causes of mental illness to be followed by recommended psychiatric treatments. The survey evidence indicates that the top three leading causes of mental illness in the context of Eritrea according to the respondents are brain disease (76%), bad events in the life of the mentally ill person (66%) and substance abuse or alcohol taking, smoking, taking drugs like hashish. (54%). The majority of the respondents have a very sympathetic and positive outlook towards mentally ill persons suggesting that mentally illness does not simply affect a chosen individual rather it can happen to anybody regardless of economic class, social status, ethnicity race and religion. Medical interventions cited by the majority of the respondents as being effective treatments for mental illness centered on the idea that hospitals and clinics for treatment and even cures for psychiatric disease. Changing perceptions of mental illnesses in Eritrea that paralleled the very caring and sympathetic attitudes of the sample university students would require raising public awareness regarding mental illness through education, using the mass media to raise public awareness, integrating mental health into the primary health care system, decentralizing mental health care services to increase access to treatment and providing affordable service to maintain positive treatment outcomes.
Effect of Phosphorus and Zinc on the Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Soybean ...Premier Publishers
An investigation was carried out at Kogi State University Student Research and Demonstration farm Anyigba during the 2019 wet season to observe the effect of phosphorus and zinc on the growth, nodulation and yield of soybean. The treatments comprised three levels: phosphorus and zinc (0, 30 and 60 kg P2O5/ha; 0, 5 and 10kg Zn/ha) and two varieties TGX 536 – 02D and Samsoy 2. The investigation revealed that application of phosphorus affected growth, nodulation, yield and some yield components of soybean while zinc application, apart from the plant height, which is reduced significantly, had no significant effect on other growth characters, nodulation, yield and yield components. However, it was generally found to decrease most of the characters. Application of 60 kg P2O5/ha gave the highest growth and yield, while 30 kg P2O5/ha gave the highest nodulation. Application of 60 kg P2O5/ha significantly increased yield to 1.9t/ha, which was significantly higher over the control plots, which gave 1.7t/ha. Crude protein and oil contents of the seeds were not significantly affected by phosphorus application but were significantly affected by zinc application, which significantly decreased protein content as its amount an increase from 0 to 10 kg/ha, and significantly increased oil content from 0 to 5kg/ha and decreased it below 5kg/ha. It was also revealed that the two varieties responded similarly to phosphorus and zinc in terms of growth, grain yield and crude protein content of the seeds.
Influence of Harvest Stage on Yield and Yield Components of Orange Fleshed Sw...Premier Publishers
A field experiment was conducted at Adami Tullu Agricultural Research Center in 2018 under rainfed condition with supplementary irrigation to determine the influence of harvest stage on vine yield and tuberous root yield of orange fleshed sweet potato varieties. The experiment consisted of four harvest stages (105, 120, 135 and 150 days after planting) and Kulfo, Tulla and Guntute varieties. A 4 X 3 factorial experiment arranged in randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Interaction of harvest stage and variety significantly influenced above ground fresh biomass, vine length, marketable tuberous root weight per hectare, commercial harvest index and harvest index. The highest mean values of above ground fresh biomass (66.12 t/ha) and marketable tuberous root weight (56.39 t/ha) were produced by Guntute variety harvested at 135 days after planting. Based on the results, it can be recommended that, farmers of the study area can grow Guntute variety by harvesting at 135 days after planting to obtain optimum vine and tuberous root yields.
Performance evaluation of upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) and variability study...Premier Publishers
This study aimed at assessing genetic variability and to evaluate the performance of 13 improved upland rice varieties for yield and its components based on morphological traits. The field experiment was conducted using a randomized block design at Guraferda and Gimbo districts in the 2019 main cropping season. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) over the two locations revealed significant differences (p≤ 0.05) among varieties for days to 50% heading, days to 85% maturity, panicle length, thousand-grain weight, and grain yield. Similarly, the ANOVA for variety by location interactions depicted significant differences among the tested varieties for days to 50% heading, days to 85% maturity, and thousand-grain weight. High heritability was obtained from days to heading (88.5%), panicle length (85.0%), and grain yield (85.2%), which indicates these traits can be easily improved through selection. High to medium broad sense heritability and genetic advance as percentage of the mean for days to heading, thousand-grain weight, and grain yield indicates a good opportunity for improvement through selection using their phenotypic performance. This is mainly due to the high role of additive gene action in the expression of such traits. This study confirmed the presence of variability among varieties for most of the studied traits, which will create an opportunity for breeders to improve rice yield and other attributes.
Response of Hot Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.) to Deficit Irrigation in Bennatse...Premier Publishers
This study was conducted at Enchete kebele in Benna-Tsemay Woreda, South Omo Zone to evaluate the response of hot pepper to deficit irrigation on yield and water productivity under furrow irrigation system. The experiment comprised four treatments (100 % of ETc, 85% of ETc, 70 % of ETc and 50% of ETc), respectively. The experiment was laid out in RCBD and replicated four times. The two years combined yield results indicated that, the maximum total yield (20.38 t/ha) was obtained from 100% ETc while minimum yield (12.92 t/ha) was obtained from 50% of ETc deficit irrigation level. The highest WUE 5.22 kg/ha mm-1 was obtained from 50% of ETc. Treatment of 100% ETc irrigation application had highest benefit cost ratio (4.5) than all others treatments. Applying 50% of ETc reduce the yield by 37% when compared to 100 % ETc. Accordingly, to achieve maximum hot pepper yield in areas where water is not scarce, applying 100% ETc irrigation water application level throughout whole growing season under furrow irrigation system is recommended. But, in the study area water scarcity is the major limiting factor for crop production. So, it is possible to get better yield and water productivity of hot pepper when we apply 85% ETc irrigation water throughout growing season under furrow irrigation system.
Harnessing the Power of Agricultural Waste: A Study of Sabo Market, Ikorodu, ...Premier Publishers
Nigeria is still burdened with huge responsibilities of waste disposal because the potential for benefits of proper waste management is yet to be harnessed. The paper evaluates the capacity of the Sabo Cattle market in producing the required quantities of waste from animal dung alongside decomposed fruits with a view to generating renewable energy possibilities for lighting, security and other business activities of the market. It is estimated that about 998 million tons of agricultural waste is produced yearly in the country with organic wastes amounting to 80 percent of the total solid wastes. This can be categorized into biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. The paper evaluates the capacity of the Sabo Cattle market in producing the required quantities of waste from animal dung alongside decomposed fruits with a view to generating renewable energy possibilities for lighting, security and other business activities of the market. The Sabo market was treated as a study case with the adoption of in-depth examinations of the facility, animals and products for sale and waste generated. A combination of experimental, interviews (qualitative) and design simulation (for final phase) was adopted to extract, verify and analyse the data generated from the study. Animal waste samples were subjected to compositional and fibre analysis with results showing that the sample has high potency for biogas production. Biodegradable Wastes are human and animal excreta, agricultural and all degradable wastes. Availability of high quantity of waste generated being organic in Sabo market allows the use of anaerobic digestion to be proposed as a waste to energy technology due to its feasibility for conversion of moist biodegradable wastes into biogas. The study found that at peak supply period during the Islamic festivities, a conservative 300tonnes of animal waste is generated during the week which translates to over 800kilowatts of electricity.
Influence of Conferences and Job Rotation on Job Productivity of Library Staf...Premier Publishers
The general purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of conferences and job rotation on job productivity of library staff in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria. The survey research design was used for this study using questionnaire as an instrument for data collection. This study covered the entire population of 661. Out of these, 501 copies of the questionnaire representing 75.8% were duly completed and returned for analysis. Student’s t-test was used to analyze the research questions. The finding showed that conferences had no significant influence on the job productivity of library staff in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria (F cal= 7.86; t-vale =6.177; p >0.005). Finding also showed that job rotation significantly influences job productivity of library staff in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria (F-cal value= 18.65; t-value = 16.225; P<0.05). This study recommended that, government should ensure that library staff participate in conferences with themes and topics that are relevant to the job they perform and also ensure that there should be proper evaluation and feedback mechanism which aimed to ensuring control and minimize abuse of their development opportunities. Again, there should be written statement of objectives in order to sustain job rotation programmes. Also, that training and development needs of library staff must be identified and analyzed before embarking on job rotation processes as this would help to build skills, competences, specialization and high job productivity.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Structure and Composition of Urinary Calculi of...Premier Publishers
Microscopic examination of urine samples collected from geriatric dogs revealed increased numbers of erythrocytes, leucocytes, epithelial cells and pus cells along with casts, bacteria, spermatozoa and crystals of various shapes. Among the different crystals, triple phosphate or struvite were predominant, followed by calcium oxalate dihydrate, calcium oxalate monohydrate and ammonium urate or biurate. The struvite crystals were, coffin-lid shape and while calcium oxalate dihydrate were octahedron or envelope and monohydrate crystals demonstrated “picket fence” and “dumbbell” and “hemp seed” appearance. Brown or yellow-brown spherical bodies with irregular borders with thorn-apple appearance were shown by ammonium urate or biurate crystals. SEM aspects of magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals revealed perpendicular columnar strata, few with scattered hexa or octa-hedral coffin-lid shaped crystals and calcium phosphate crystals were like cracked eggshells. Presence of wavy phases with sundry areas (uric acid), picket fence (calcium oxalate monohydrate) and typical envelope (calcium oxalate dehydrate) were electron microscopic appearance of various crystals.
Gentrification and its Effects on Minority Communities – A Comparative Case S...Premier Publishers
This paper does a comparative analysis of four global cities and their minority districts which have been experiencing the same structural pressure of gentrification. The main contribution of this paper is providing a detailed comparison of four micro geographies worldwide and the impacts of gentrification on them: Barrio Logan in San Diego, Bo-Kaap in Cape Town, the Mission District in San Francisco, and the Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus District in Vienna. All four cities have been experiencing the displacement of minority communities due to increases in property values. These cities were chosen because their governments enacted different policies to temper the gentrification process. It was found that cities which implemented social housing and cultural inclusionary policies were more successful in maintaining the cultural and demographic make-up of the districts.
Oil and Fatty Acid Composition Analysis of Ethiopian Mustard (Brasicacarinata...Premier Publishers
The experiments was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Center, to analyze forty nine Ethiopian Mustard land races for oil and fatty acid composition traits The experiment was carried out in a simple lattice design. The analysis of variance showed that there were highly significant differences among genotypes for all oil and fatty acid traits compared. The significant difference indicates the existence of genetic variability among the land races which is important for improvement
Palestine last event orientationfvgnh .pptxRaedMohamed3
An EFL lesson about the current events in Palestine. It is intended to be for intermediate students who wish to increase their listening skills through a short lesson in power point.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
Honest Reviews of Tim Han LMA Course Program.pptxtimhan337
Personal development courses are widely available today, with each one promising life-changing outcomes. Tim Han’s Life Mastery Achievers (LMA) Course has drawn a lot of interest. In addition to offering my frank assessment of Success Insider’s LMA Course, this piece examines the course’s effects via a variety of Tim Han LMA course reviews and Success Insider comments.
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
Embracing GenAI - A Strategic ImperativePeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Welcome to TechSoup New Member Orientation and Q&A (May 2024).pdfTechSoup
In this webinar you will learn how your organization can access TechSoup's wide variety of product discount and donation programs. From hardware to software, we'll give you a tour of the tools available to help your nonprofit with productivity, collaboration, financial management, donor tracking, security, and more.
Acetabularia Information For Class 9 .docxvaibhavrinwa19
Acetabularia acetabulum is a single-celled green alga that in its vegetative state is morphologically differentiated into a basal rhizoid and an axially elongated stalk, which bears whorls of branching hairs. The single diploid nucleus resides in the rhizoid.
Macroeconomics- Movie Location
This will be used as part of your Personal Professional Portfolio once graded.
Objective:
Prepare a presentation or a paper using research, basic comparative analysis, data organization and application of economic information. You will make an informed assessment of an economic climate outside of the United States to accomplish an entertainment industry objective.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
2. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Solomon A. Dansieh 277
secretarial students is a way of ensuring that they have a
somewhat guaranteed form of communication for their
future professions. Nevertheless, it has been observed
that the performance of secretarial students of the Wa
Technical University in the English language keeps
falling. This is evident among students as they often
complain about their poor communicative skills in the
English language, though their teachers are trying their
best. Most students express worry about their inability to
express themselves fluently in the language; knowing
that the ability to speak, read, listen, and write is a major
requirement in the job market for secretarial students.
This implies that there is need to identify the English
language skill needs of students offering Secretaryship
and Management Studies as a programme of study in
order to equip them adequately for the world of work. It is
against this background that the researchers considered
it necessary to find out the specific English language
skills needed by secretarial students and to propose
measures that can enhance the acquisition of same. This
study sought to establish from Secretaryship and
Management students of the Wa Technical University in
the Upper West Region of Ghana what perceptions they
have about the English Language course; what specific
skill needs they have in the subject and suggest
interventions that can help improve the impartation,
acquisition and use of those skills. Before we do a review
of relevant literature on the topic, we deem it expedient to
give a brief background of the Secretarial English course.
An Overview of Secretarial English I – IV
The course is a compulsory one taken by all students
pursuing the Secretaryship and Management Studies
programme in the Business School of the Wa Technical
University. It is taught over six semesters and structured
into Secretarial English 1 – 6 (a twelve-credit course
coded as SMS 126E – SMS 326E). As an English for
Specific Purpose (ESP) course, Secretarial English can
be described as an aspect of English Occupational
Purpose (EOP) as it is taken by only students offering the
Secretaryship and Management Studies Programme. It
aims at equipping students with the needed skills for their
future careers as secretaries and managers. It combines
the fundamentals of grammar, mechanics, usage, and
composition with specific topics in business
communication like report writing; writing pleasant and
unpleasant business letters; letters about employment;
making oral presentations; organising meetings and
conferences; types of résumés and job-search interviews.
In the following sections, the paper now does a review of
literature relating to the topic, discusses the procedure for
collecting and analysing the data and subsequently
presents findings upon which the recommendations were
made for the enhancement of quality of the teaching and
learning of Secretarial English.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Perceptions of Tertiary Secretarial Students about
the English Language Course
English Language is considered the foundation of
language learning on which effective reading, listening,
writing, and speaking constitute the bedrock of human
language learning (Afful, 2007). The concept of English
language skills is technical and students from all circles
of education (secretarial students inclusive) need certain
attitudes to grasp these concepts (Ibid.). According to
Adika (2003), secretarial students hardly practise the
English language by speaking it. The habit of secretarial
students not taking the English Language course
seriously is as a result of their perception about English
Language being difficult, an assertion that LeClair et al.
(2009) corroborated. Shen (2006) also observed that
students have a negative perception of reading, writing,
speaking, and listening. As a result of those negative
perceptions about the language, the process of learning
English as a Second Language becomes a challenge for
them. Secretarial English students who have not received
adequate preparation for learning English Language skills
such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening end up
not performing so well in English Language (Dansieh,
2015).
The Importance of Academic and Occupational
Language skills to Secretarial Students
Language skills have become more and more essential in
all academic and occupational environments in today’s
world. The importance of language skills varies in all
circles of education and occupation with some requiring
very high skills in several languages while others require
just the basics in one language (Crystal 2003). English
language skills of students are very important in their
academic life and subsequently in their professional lives.
There are also several different perceptions of English
language skill needs in the modern workplace.
Employees, employers, as well as prospective
employees and employers all need to consider the
language needs of their workplace.
To overcome education and skill disadvantages, the
International Labour Organisation (ILO) (2007) observed
that “individuals are considered most employable, able to
find and retain jobs and adaptable to workplace changes
when they have broad-based education and training,
basic and portable high-level skills, including teamwork,
problem solving, ICT, communication and language
skills” (ILO, 2007: 88). The organisation further observed
that core skills like client service, social interpersonal and
language skills are important in adopting and attracting
new ICTs. Even though the technological content of work
in the field of business services may be low, workers
require language skills, as well as social and
communication skills.
3. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Int. J. Lit., Lang. Ling. 278
According to Kirkkopelto (2007) the English Language
skills of secretarial students in writing, reading, and
speaking at work is very important to know. Kirkkopelto
(2007:67), studied the importance of speech fluency,
grammatical accuracy, and other aspects of English at
the school and workplace and observed that secretarial
students perceive their actual needs as English language
skills required in day-to-day work (Kirkkopelto 2007:103).
According to the European Framework of Reference for
Languages (Council of Europe 2001), there are six
different levels of proficiency of language users: basic
user (A1 and A2), the independent user (B1 and B2) and
proficient user (C1 and C2) (Council of Europe 2001:23).
These proficiency levels are a global scale designed to
simplify the framework to non-specialist users of
language (Council of Europe 2001:24). Kirkkopelto
(2007:65) asserted that the English Language skills of
many students in a tertiary institution and at the
workplace are at the intermediate level.
As many companies expand abroad these days, it is
obvious that employees who have acquired relevant skills
in the English Language have a greater chance of being
hired (Vistawide.com, 2012). Those employees who can
speak only their native language can speak or cooperate
just with other people in their native country; while
bilingual or multilingual employees can refine hand in
hand with their company (European, Commission, 2000).
Besides business, there are many working spheres
where knowledge in the English language seems to be of
a significant advantage: travel agencies, advertising or
publishing industry, science research, media,
engineering, politics, are some examples. Antimoon
(2012) advises workers to use several examples of
working tools in which their English language skills could
be significantly useful: technology, computer science,
business, science constitute some of these tools.
According to Smithers (2000), English Language skills
should be evaluated as equal to literacy, numeracy and
communication technology from basic school to
secondary school and later to higher education. He also
points out that there are many opportunities in a career
that are not available to monolingual people. In the
working environment, English language skills acquired
can greatly enhance one's professional progress.
Hyland (2006) argues that there are a lot of different
learning abilities that form part of the process of learning
the English Language. The author further adds that a
student who takes the English Language seriously and
learns it in their education always gets more advantages
in their job opportunities. This affirms the need for a more
comprehensive insight into English language skill needs
and competencies of secretarial students of tertiary
institutions in Ghana. The importance of the English
Language course in degree/diploma/certificate
requirements provides valuable information. Right from
basic school level, students must understand that all
subjects require the English Language and as such
requires a great deal of responsibility from students to
develop positive attitudes towards the subject.
Improving the Quality of English Language education
Tertiary Institutions in Ghana
According to Dansieh (2015), more is expected of tertiary
students from English-speaking countries like Ghana,
where English is the medium of instruction, to possess
some minimum global competence in their reading,
writing, listening, and speaking skills in academic and
workplace communication. Whether it is in the public or
market-driven private sector, demand for quality tertiary
education ‘products’ by key stakeholders of tertiary
education like governments, parents, students, lecturers,
and industry also makes it imperative to assure quality in
teaching and learning in general and in English Language
in particular.
It has, however, been observed that despite this, English
for Academic Purposes (EAP) and English for
Occupational Purposes (EOP) courses in Ghana have
not undergone any systematic evaluation as in similar
programmes in America, the United Kingdom, and
Australia (Afful, 2007; Hyland 2002). In a research
conducted by Dansieh (2015), he observed that the
Communication Skills (English for Academic Purposes)
course, which was introduced in higher educational
institutions somewhere in 1985, would need a major
overhaul taking into account current realities.
The situation in Ghanaian Technical Universities
(formerly polytechnics) is not very different: For instance,
Secretarial English and Communication Skills curricula
currently in use in these institutions were published some
19 years ago (NABPTEX, 2001) and are yet to undergo
any major review. For instance, topics on some basic
skills that the 21st century secretary needs to have, like
sending and receiving emails; attaching documents
electronically to mails; organising teleconferences and
using PowerPoint in oral presentations are conspicuously
missing from the syllabuses. This calls for a major
curriculum review to reflect modern skill needs of
secretarial students for the field of work. It also shows
that although several efforts have been made at various
times at both regional and national levels for language
policy frameworks, there is still the need to increase the
awareness for English for academic and occupational
purposes among students in tertiary institutions so that
they take the English Language seriously.
To improve the English language skills of tertiary
students, policies on the language of education and
quality in education must be effectively implemented
(Owu-Ewie, 2006). Also, quality assurance concepts to
4. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Solomon A. Dansieh 279
language education in the country must be encouraged.
As such, there must be a consensus on the English
language which should be used as the main medium of
instruction from the lower primary level to tertiary level.
Available work on quality in education must cover the
entire formal, informal, and non-formal education
spectrum. According to Hyland and Hamp-Lyons (2002)
and Ankmomah et al. (2005), the quality of the English
language could be achieved through mastering enough
English. The right English for students to succeed in
learning their subjects through the medium of English in
textbooks, lectures, study groups, and so on, is a matter
of great urgency. Countries must try to lift themselves into
economic prominence or to remain major players on the
world economic stage, producing an annual crop of
graduates who can function effectively through the
English language.
According to a World Bank report in (2002) graduates
from Ghanaian tertiary educational institutions must be
able to communicate well in English, the ‘global lingua
franca’, so they can function well anywhere in today’s
‘global village.’ Of late, however, it has been observed
that the general communicative competence of many
graduates from Ghanaian tertiary institutions in the
English language has been rather abysmal. According to
Dansieh (2015) quality assurance in higher education is
key to successful academic and occupational careers for
students. The author further argues that tertiary
institutions must ensure that their programmes and
services are fit for the purpose for which they were
designed so that students would benefit while in and out
of school.
Developing or improving the reading skills of
students
To develop or improve reading skills, teachers play a
crucial role. They should help students to focus on their
reading, in the way they read for meaning instead of
getting involved in individual words or unimportant details
and losing the main meaning of a text. Also, teachers
need to help them to read in diverse ways and use sub-
skills that will help them to improve and understand what
are they reading efficiently (Hadfield, 2008).
According to Harmer (2007), to understand reading texts
students need to do some activities or use some
strategies called Reading Skills. First, students need to
be able to scan the text, which means reading quickly
while looking for specific information. On the other hand,
students also need to be able to skim, which is used to
quickly identify the general idea of a text, readers are
focused briefly on a few words per line, headings, or the
first and last sentence in a paragraph.
Hadfield (2008) says that reading for gist is another
strategy that implies reading with a purpose in mind.
Also, reading for detail is considered as a strategy.
Sometimes, students need to read carefully, because it is
necessary to pay attention to all the sentences to get the
meaning of the whole text. Hadfield (2008) also talks
about sub-skills. These are three: Activating background
knowledge, predicting and using linkers.
Activating background knowledge helps learners to
understand a text by discussing the topic before reading.
Brainstorming and mind-mapping are useful techniques
to do this. The first one means to think quickly of anything
related to the topic and the second one tries to order the
ideas, for example in separate categories. These two
activities help to activate the vocabulary learners already
have.
Predicting can be done by looking at titles, pictures, or
words from the text. Students can make mini-predictions
throughout the whole reading. The last sub-skill is using
linkers. Linkers are words that act as signals that show
the structure of a text and help to understand when a new
piece of information is coming. The use of these sub-
skills can be very helpful in the development of reading
skills (Oxford & Rebecca, 2001).
Developing and improving listening skills
To develop or improve listening skills, Hadfield (2008)
mentions different kinds of activities and strategies: One
of them is listening with a purpose, which is important
because learners can adapt the way they listen to their
aims, paying more attention to the information they need
to extract from the listening text. Another aspect that
Hadfield mentions is listening for gist. When the teacher
uses this strategy, he/she sets a question or task which is
given to the learners before they listen so that they know
what information they are listening for. The third aspect
mentioned by Hadfield is listening for specific details,
which means to listen with a clear purpose in mind,
thereby helping learners develop the ability to filter out
everything they do not need to know.
Developing or improving the writing skills of students
Many authors agree that some issues help in the
development or improvement of writing. One of those
issues is a genre, which according to Harmer (2007),
represents the norms of different kinds of writing. It helps
to recognize words. A good way to teach genre is when
teachers show models of what they want learners to write
and then, using these techniques, students try to do their
work. Concerning this, Hadfield (2008) suggests that
when teachers are teaching how to write a particular type
of text, they can give students activities to practice
accuracy; give guidance in what to say or how to say it,
or allow students to write freely.
Another aspect of writing is cooperative work. Although
many students write on their own, it is much better to use
cooperative writing in classes, because group writing
5. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Int. J. Lit., Lang. Ling. 280
allows giving more detailed and constructive feedback.
To write in groups, whether as part of a long or short
process, is very motivating for students to develop this
skill (Harmer, 2007).
Continuing with the description of how to develop and
improve writing skills, Harmer (2007) identifies creative
writing as the approach that suggests the imagination as
the base in writing poetry, stories, and plays. According
to Hammer (2007), most people feel pride in their work
and want it to be read. But this situation is most common
when people talk about creative writing instead of any
other written products. Students feel more motivated
when a teacher gives imaginative writing tasks because
they feel engaged and try to do their best in producing a
variety of correct and appropriate language than they
might for more routine assignments.
As writing is an important ability, it is necessary to build a
writing habit in students no matter the level of education
(from basic to tertiary). Doing this, students will recognize
writing as a normal part of classroom practice and they
come to writing assignments with much enthusiasm
which in the end have a positive impact on their
occupation. To achieve the writing habit it is necessary to
give the students interesting and enjoyable tasks to do
(Harmer, 2007). According to Hadfield (2008), another
way of helping students to organize and express their
ideas is the writing process that consists of dividing the
writing activity into many stages, each of which practices
an important sub-skill in this process. Brainstorming is
also a good technique to do for writing.
Developing or Improving Speaking Skills of Students
Hadfield (2008) proposes that teachers/lecturers can help
students to develop their speaking skills by giving them
ideas such as asking them to read a text concerning the
topic that is being discussed so that students can
manage some vocabulary about it. This is also helpful
because it can get students thinking around the topic and
stimulate ideas.
He also proposes that teachers should provide students
with what to say by giving them some role cards with an
outline or suggestions of what they can say. He further
proposes that tasks should be precise, with a clear goal
for students to reach so that students have a clear idea of
the outcome of their work. To help the student to develop
their confidence for speaking, Hadfield (2008) proposes,
for example, allowing the students to practice in pairs
what they want to say so that they will feel more confident
to say it in front of the whole class.
To help tertiary students develop and improve fluency,
the most useful tool is asking them to speak, present
different and interesting topics or communicational
situations for them to express themselves as many times
as possible. Another important aspect to consider in the
development of speaking skills is the feedback that the
teacher gives to students. He/she should avoid
interrupting learners to correct them while they are
speaking because this could mean that they will not get
the chance to develop fluency (Ibid.).
Hadfiled (2008) postulates that during the language
learning process, listening, speaking, reading, and writing
should be treated as integrated, interdependent, and
inseparable elements of language. Chen (2007) also
asserts that lecturers should incorporate opportunities
throughout the reading for students to develop their
learning by responding verbally as they read, write, and
learn in English because it is the integrated use of oral
and written language for functional and meaningful
purposes that best promote the full development of
second language proficiency. They suggest that reading
and writing as well as speaking and listening should be
integral parts of all classroom language activities
because all these processes interact with one another.
METHODOLOGY
Research Design, Population and Sample
The research is a descriptive survey through which views
and opinions were sampled from respondents. Avoke
(2005) considers a descriptive survey as a design that
portrays accurately the characteristics of particular
individual situations or groups. The study targeted all the
Secretaryship and Management students of the Business
school of Wa Polytechnic (now Wa Technical University).
The stratified sampling technique was employed to select
a total of 60 respondents for this study comprising twenty
(20) students each from Level 100, Level 200, and Level
300.
Data Collection: Tool and Procedure
A questionnaire was used to collect data from
respondents in this study. It was made up of both closed-
ended and open-ended questions with options like:
(fluently, fairly fluent, moderate, with difficulty, not at all:
almost daily, about once a week, about once a month,
less frequently and never). It was divided into four
sections: Section A – Personal data; Section B –
Academic and Occupational English Language skills
needed by secretarial students and Section C –
measures required for improving the English Language
skills of secretarial students in Wa Technical University to
equip them for the job market.
The researchers obtained an introductory letter from the
Department of Secretaryship and Management Studies,
Wa Technical University, stating the purpose and
objectives of the study and the cooperation of the
research participants. The introductory letter was copied
to the respondents. The participants were briefed on the
purpose, time, venue, and how to answer the
6. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Solomon A. Dansieh 281
questionnaires. They were also assured of confidentiality
questionnaires. The respondents responded to all the
questionnaires.
Data Analysis Technique
All 60 questionnaires administered were retrieved and
used in this study. Analysis of data provided facts and
figures that enabled the interpretation of the results and
reaching conclusions from the findings of the study. All
items of the questionnaires were coded. Items in the form
of a Likert scale were rated between 5-1, with 5 being the
highest and 1 being the lowest. Questionnaires were
edited to ensure that clear, legible, relevant, and
appropriate responses had been provided. The coded
items and their corresponding frequencies were fed into
the computer using the excel programmer. Data were
analyzed using simple percentages and frequencies.
DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION OF RESULTS
Demographic characteristics of the respondents
The demographic characteristics collected from the
respondents are into two sections: The first section
captures the gender, occupation and academic levels of
study, while the second section captures the English
language background of respondents.
In Table 1, majority of the respondents in the study were
females. They accounted for 58% of the population, while
the males accounted for 42%. This is an indication that,
the Secretaryship and Management Studies Department
of Wa Polytechnic is dominated by female students. It
was also revealed that, only a few of the respondents
were working and studying at the same time. Thirty
percent (30%) accounted for student workers, while 70%
accounted for students who are not working but only in
the study.
Table 1: Demographic characteristics of respondents
Gender Frequency Percentage
Male 25 42
Female 35 58
Occupation
Student Only 42 70
Student Worker 18 30
Total 60 100
Source: Field study (2018)
Respondents were chosen from all the levels (Level 100,
200 and 300) of the Secretaryship and Management
Studies Department. In order to ensure a fair
representation of all the levels, respondents were
requested to indicate their level of study. Figure 1
indicates that majority of the respondents, representing
43%, were sampled from Level 300, 35% represented
Level 100 and 22% represented Level 200. At the time of
the data collection, students were studying in preparation
for their end of semester exams; therefore, Level 300
students were more accessible to respond to the
questionnaire than the other levels. This accounted for
the majority of respondents coming from Level 300
Figure 1: Academic Level of Respondents
.
Level 100
35%
Level 200
22%
Level 300
43%
7. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Int. J. Lit., Lang. Ling. 282
The study also explored the English proficiency of the
respondents. Table 2 indicates that, majority (90%) of the
respondents had never studied Secretarial English
anywhere else apart from their current formal educational
environment, while 10% indicated they had studied
Secretarial English elsewhere before. It was also noted
that, 100% respondents started learning English at the
basic level of education. For the purpose of this study,
basic level of education is defined from Kindergarten to
Senior High School level. None of the respondents
started learning English language either from the
Secondary or Tertiary levels.
Table 2: English Language Background
Ever studied English elsewhere Frequency Percentage
Yes 6 10
No 54 90
Level started learning English
Basic Level 60 100
Secondary Level 0 0
Tertiary Level 0 0
Total 60 100
Source: Field study, (2018)
Table 2 shows the proficiency level of the respondents.
Majority of the respondents accounting for 45% indicated
they had good English proficiency while 28% indicated
very good proficiency. The rest of the respondents
representing 22%, 3% and 2% recorded fair, poor and
very
poor English proficiencies respectively. This is an
indication that, over 50% of the respondents had a good
command of English language among the secretarial
students.
Figure 2: Secretarial English Proficiency of Respondents
Shen (2006) asserted that students have a negative
perception to reading, writing, speaking and listening.
After probing to understand the English proficiency level
(represented in Figure 2) of the respondents, the study
enquired further to understand the perception of
respondents of English language skill. It was revealed in
Table 3 that, respondents had a phobia of English
language. As represented on the table, 62% accounting
for the majority of the respondents, perceived English
language to be difficult, while 38% thought otherwise.
This finding confirms the observations of earlier
researchers like Adika (2003) and LeClair et al. (2009)
that secretarial students perceive English Language to be
a difficult subject.
Table 3: Respondents’ Perception about English Language
Perception of English as difficult Frequency Percentage
Yes 37 62
No 23 38
Total 60 100
Source: Field study, (2018)
Very good Good Fair Poor Very poor
28
45
22
3 2
Percentage
8. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Solomon A. Dansieh 283
To identify the difficulty with English language,
respondents were asked to specify their difficult area in
the subject. Four basic areas were identified which
included, listening skills, reading skills, speaking skills
and writing skills. Figure 3 shows that, the majority (38%)
had difficulty in speaking English. This agrees with
Adika’s findings that secretarial students hardly practise
English language by speaking it (Adika, 2003). Thirty-two
(32) percent indicated that writing was difficult; 18%
identified reading difficulties with only12% choosing
listening difficulties. This is an indication that, some
respondents could be good in one skill but weak in the
other.
Figure 1: Areas of difficulty identified by Respondents
Academic and Occupational English Language skills
needed by Secretarial Students
Kirkkopelto (2007) noted that secretarial students
perceived their actual needs for English language skills to
be those required in day-to-day work. Respondents were
asked where they use English language the most and the
following table indicates their responses: Table 4
indicates that respondents use English language in
diverse ways and situations. However, majority (60%)
said they use English for school and studies. This was
not surprising as majority of participants in the survey had
indicated that they were students only. Others,
representing 28% use English language skills at work
and 12% uses it in their free time.
Table 4: Use of English Language Skills
Where do you use of English the most Frequency Percentage
At school or in my studies 36 60
In my free time 7 12
At work 17 28
I do not use English 0 0
Total 60 100
Source: Field study, (2018)
Language skills are very important and vary in all circles
of education and occupation. The study identified some
reasons for the use of English language by students.
Table 5 illustrates the responses using the Likert scale
analysis.
In Table 5, it is evident that most respondents’ reason for
English use is to communicate with people. Majority of
the respondents representing 55% said they use English
for communication almost daily. Adika (2003) had earlier
observed that students hardly practice English by
speaking it. This was evidenced as most of the
participants (47%) responded “less frequently” when they
were asked to state the reason for learning it better. It
was also true that, 43% of the respondents never use
English in any way for the fun of it. Twenty-three (23)
percent said they used it almost daily where there are no
other alternatives of languages to use.
32
12
38
18
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Writing
Listening
Speaking
Reading
Percentage
9. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Int. J. Lit., Lang. Ling. 284
Table 5: Reasons for English Language use
Condition Almost daily About once a week About once a month Less frequently Never
To communicate with people 33 (55%) 9 (15%) 3 (5%) 15 (25%) 0
To learn it better 23 (38%) 4 (7%) 3 (3%) 28 (47%) 2 (3%)
For the fun 4 (7%) 3 (5%) 9 (15%) 18 (30%) 26 (43%)
Where there are no other alternatives 14 (23%) 11 (18%) 8 (13%) 23 (38%) 4 (7%)
For my work 5 (8%) 3 (5%) 2 (3%) 10 (17%) 1 (2%)
For my studies 29 (48%) 0 0 0 0
In leisure activities and among friends 14 (23%) 6 (10%) 5 (8%) 25 (42%) 4 (7%)
Source: Field study, (2018)
As most of the respondents were students only, a few
responded to using English for work purposes.
Seventeen percent (17%) said they use English less
frequently for work purpose and 48% for studies. For
leisure activities and among friends, English is used less
frequently (42%) and only 23% use English almost every
day. This is an indication that, students hardly use the
language besides using it as a requirement for studies
and work.
The study also asked participants about the use of some
modern communication tools deemed relevant in their
academic and occupational sphere. Their responses,
represented in Table 6 included, emailing, text
messaging, PowerPoint presentation and video
conferencing. It was revealed that majority (57%) did not
use emailing at all. Only 10% uses emailing in their
occupational environment frequently. Text messaging
was predominantly used as it accounted for 40% of the
respondents. When it came to PowerPoint presentation
and video conferencing, very few responses were
gathered. Forty-three (43) percent said they used
PowerPoint presentation with difficulty; only 8% was
conversant with using it, while 40% did not use video
conferencing. Others who could use it but with difficulty,
were 35% and 8% could use video conferencing freely. It
was surprising to note that, majority of Secretarial
students in the 21 Century do not know how to use
modern communication tools such as emailing services.
Table 6: Modern Communication Tools
Conditions Fluently Fairly fluent Moderate With difficulty Not at all
Emailing 6 (10%) 2 (3%) 2 (3%) 9 (15%) 34 (57%)
Text messaging 24 (40%) 12 (20%) 5 (8%) 5 (8%)
PowerPoint presentation 5 (8%) 2 (3%) 2 (3%) 26 (43%) 5 (8%)
Video conferencing 5 (8%) 2 (3%) 1 (2%) 21 (35%) 24 (40%)
Source: Field study, (2018)
Measures for Improving English Language Skills
Needed by Secretarial Students
Identifying quality of administrative/secretarial skills
The study also researched other skill sets that are
relevant to students offering Secretaryship and
Management Studies in tertiary institutions. Respondents
were asked to identify some skills which they think should
be acquired during their academic study. Table 7
illustrates the responses to the question. The skills that
were identified include: communication /interpersonal
skills, technology skills, organizing skills, planning and
problem solving skills.
In communication/interpersonal skills, respondents were
able to identify qualities such as customer service, client
relations and presentation which recorded 72%, 65% and
57% responses respectively. When asked to identify
identifying technological tools needed in their profession,
respondents also recognized word processing (75%) and
record keeping (42%) as the main qualities needed, while
35% responded to voice mailing. Respondents’
responses also indicated they could identify qualities like
organizing skills. Among options with the highest and
correct qualities were inventory taking and accuracy.
Responses for inventory taking were 42% while accuracy
was 20%.
Table 7 presented planning skills as a skill set.
Participants’ responses for the appropriate qualities were
prioritizing and meeting-planning which accounted for
95% 65% responses respectively. Some of the
respondents opted for supervising (57%) which was not a
quality for planning but organizing. For problem solving
skills, the three main qualities among the options were
training, mediation and client relation. These qualities
recorded 93%, 88% and 80% responses respectively.
From Table 7, it was obvious that some of the skills more
easily identifiable by the respondents. For example,
respondents could identify meeting planning as one of
10. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Solomon A. Dansieh 285
the qualities which accounted for 95% of the responses.
They could also identify training, mediation and client
relation (93%, 88% and 80% respectively) as qualities of
organizing skills. This is an indication that most of the
Secretarial students may be in difficulty of identifying
appropriate skill that are relevant to the course of study
thereby affecting the effectiveness of acquiring the
appropriate content (English language) to develop those
skills.
Table 7: Secretarial/Administrative Skill Needs
Communication/interpersonal skills Frequency Percentage
Client relation 39 65
Emailing 16 27
Faxing 12 20
Customer service 43 72
Presentation 34 57
Technology skills
Stenography 10 17
Research 19 32
Record keeping 25 42
Voicemail 21 35
Word processing 45 75
Organizing skills
Accuracy 12 20
Inventory 25 42
Presentation 9 15
Correspondence 15 25
Filling 5 8
Planning skills
Prioritizing 39 65
Multitasking 24 40
Meeting planning 57 95
Supervising 34 57
Mediation 12 20
Problem solving skills
Training 56 93
Event coordination 11 18
Efficiency 9 15
Client relation 48 80
Mediation 53 88
Source: Field Study, (2018)
Improving English language skills
The following information is analyzed qualitatively. They
were open-ended questions for respondents to freely
express themselves. Respondents were asked to briefly
state their opinion how the four basic
English/communication skills can be improved.
Writing Skills
Writing skills is one of the major problems respondents
identified in Figure 3 as the second English language skill
with difficulties. Respondents gave a wide range of
suggestions to improving their writing skills. Some of
those which were deduced included the following:
a. expanding vocabulary
b. master English spelling
c. reading regularly
d. improve grammar
e. frequent practice
f. take time to edit your work
g. eliminate unnecessary words
h. research
Speaking Skills
Speaking was identified as the worst area of difficulty
(38%) in English language skills as shown in Figure 3.
Most students mastered the fine points of English
grammar but find themselves at a loss when it comes to
actually having a conversation with other colleagues. In
reality the only way to develop fluency in speaking is by
huge amount of listening, and then practising. Some of
11. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Int. J. Lit., Lang. Ling. 286
the responses of respondents suggesting ways to
improve the speaking skill were deduced as below:
a. effective listening and speaking
b. reading aloud
c. frequent reading
d. frequent practice of speaking
e. practice by imitation
f. learning from an English speaking conversation
partner
g. surround oneself with English language
h. ask for repetition
Listening Skills
The following are some of the suggestions that
respondents made for improvement of their listening
abilities in school and work:
a. face speaker and maintain eye contact
b. be attentive, but relaxed
c. keep an open mind
d. listen to the word and visualize the conversation
e. don’t interrupt
f. ask questions to ensure understanding
g. provide feedback
h. pay attention to non-verbal communication
Reading Skills
Improving reading skill helps reduce unnecessary reading
time and enable you to read in a more focused and
selective manner. It also increases the level of
understanding and concentration. Respondents also
suggested the following as ways to improve their reading
skills.
a. read for meaning
b. reading out loud
c. make time to read and frequently
d. read the right context
e. ask question during and after reading
f. scanning
g. skimming
h. do detail reading and note taking
i. develop reading speed
DISCUSSION
The demographic characteristics of the respondents
revealed that the majority of the respondents were
females accounting for 58% of the population, indicating
a female-dominant population in the University’s
Secretaryship and Management Studies Department.
The study further observed that majority of the
respondents were students (70%) with the remaining
30% being student workers. Being the candidate class, it
was not surprising that majority (43%) of the respondents
were from Level 300. As they prepare to enter the job
market soon, there is need to equip them with the
relevant communicative skills in the English language
and ICT. To overcome education and skill disadvantages,
the International Labour Organisation (2007) observed
that “individuals are considered most employable, able to
find and retain jobs and adaptable to workplace changes
when they have broad-based education and training. The
organisation further observed that core skills like client
service, social interpersonal and language skills are
important in adopting and attracting new ICTs. These
assertions of the ILO affirm the findings of this study that
in addition to students’ skills in the conventional English
language skills there is need for secretarial students to
possess basic technological skills to enhance their
employability.
In exploring the English background of the respondents,
the study discovered 90% of the respondents had never
studied Secretarial English anywhere beside the tertiary
educational environment. This confirms Secretarial
English as an English for Occupational Purposes (EOP)
course hardly taken at the basic and secondary levels but
rather at tertiary and professional institutions like the
study site.
It was also revealed that 97% of the respondents started
learning English at the basic level of education. Majority
of the respondents also recorded good English language
proficiency representing 45%.
It was also established that respondents had varied
perceptions about the study of the English language in
general. For instance, 62% of the respondents were of
the view that English language was difficult. This finding
was line with the results of similar studies conducted
earlier elsewhere by Shen (2006) and LeClair et al.
(2009). As far as the specific difficult skill areas were
concerned, a good number of students (38%) also
perceived speaking skills as the most difficult in both
academic and occupational settings. Others representing
(32%) were of the view that writing was difficult followed
by reading and listening (with 18% and 12%
respectively).
On occupational and academic English language skills
needed by secretarial students, it was observed that,
most (60%) of the respondents use English language at
school/in their studies. This finding corresponds to
Kirkkopelto (2007)’s that secretarial students perceive
their actual needs as English language skills required in
day-to-day work. The second most used of the language
skills was for occupational purpose which attracted 28%
of the respondents.
Respondents were also asked the reasons for the use of
the English language. The responses showed that,
respondents’ reason for the use of the language included
communication, learning, fun, work and studies among
others. For purpose of communicating with people, 55%
12. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Solomon A. Dansieh 287
respondents uses it on almost daily basis in order to learn
it better, while 38% uses it almost daily. Those who said
they never use English language for the fun of it
constituted 43%. Others include 38% less frequently
where there are no other alternatives; 48% for studies
and 42% less frequently in leisure activities and among
friends.
The study also sought to determine the relevant
technological skills of Secretarial students and it was
established rather surprisingly that 57% of respondents
do not use emailing as a modern communication tool.
This is so because as Secretarial students in the 21st
Century, one would expect that they would have been
conversant with modern communication tools. Text
messaging was however observed to be more frequently
in use as 40% of respondents said they used it.
PowerPoint presentation is used with difficulty by 43%
and 40% do not use video conferencing at all.
The study also recognized some basic skills that formed
requirements for secretarial/administrative students.
Some of those identified included,
communication/interpersonal skills, organizing skills,
planning and problem solving skills. Respondents were
asked to identify some qualities under each of the skills
mentioned. It was revealed that, to improve upon their
writing skills, students ought to expand their vocabulary,
master English spelling, read regularly, and improve
grammar among others. These recommendations
correspond with the views of Hadfied (2008) and Harmer
(2007) discussed earlier. Speaking skills can be improved
by effective listening, frequent practice, reading aloud.
This is confirmed by the proposition of (Hadfied 2008).
Listening skills can also be improved by paying attention,
keeping an open mind, providing feedback. This also
corresponds to the strategies suggested by (Hadfied
2008). Lastly, improving reading skills takes frequent
practice, scanning/skimming, reading the right context
among others. This revelation goes in harmony with the
assertions of Hadfied (2008); Harmer (2007) and Chen
(2007).
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The study concludes that English language is a
fundamental requirement for success in both academic
and occupational environments. It can be assumed as a
practice that assists individuals to gain creativeness and
develops their critical thinking capacities and also
constitutes an important tool for the development of
personalities and mental capacities of individuals. English
language skills (reading, listening, writing and speaking)
are necessary for a healthy intellectual growth and play a
very crucial role in enabling a person to achieve practical
efficiency in academic and occupational environment.
The study also observes that secretarial students barely
practise the use of the English language especially by
speaking it. The oral presentation course in the current
Secretarial English syllabus (SMS 326E) in Technical
Universities in Ghana only covers one semester –
Semester VI. This duration is obviously not enough and
should be extended for students to have more contact
hours to practise. No wonder 38% of students identified
speaking as the most difficult skill in the English
language. This finding agrees to the assertion made by
Adika (2003) that students hardly practise speaking the
English language. To help students overcome the phobia
of speaking English, the curriculum should be structured
in such a way that they are given oral presentation
opportunities throughout the duration (Levels 100 – 300)
of their programme of study.
The findings of this study also affirm that all the English
language skills are very imperative in the academic and
occupational environments of every secretarial student.
From the survey results, 60% and 28% of the
respondents said they use the English language mostly
at school or during studies and at work respectively.
English language skills of students are very important in
their academic lives, which in turn, lead to their use of
same for occupational purposes.
A rather surprising observation the study made was that,
at this age and time, secretarial students had very little
knowledge in the use of modern communication tools
such as emailing, PowerPoint presentation, and video
conferencing. Only a few (10%) of respondents knew
emailing, PowerPoint presentation (8%), and video
conferencing (8%). In reference to the ILO’s (2007)
recommendation, education and skill disadvantages can
be overcome when individuals have broad-based
education and training, basic and portable high-level
skills, including teamwork, problem solving, ICT,
communication and language skills. This makes them
most employable, able to find and retain jobs and
adaptable to workplace changes. Secretarial students
should therefore be equipped with not just language
skills, but also social and communication skills that are
deemed relevant on the 21st century job market.
This study asserts that the most effective way of
becoming proficient in English language skills is the
constant practice of the four major skill areas including
writing, speaking, reading, and listening. These four
linguistic skills should be considered as a habit by
secretarial students and repeatedly carried out to enable
them excel in their academic and professional lives. To
enhance their professional skills, they also need to
acquire some basic knowledge in the use of modern
information communication technological tools.
13. English Language Skill Needs of the Secretarial Student
Int. J. Lit., Lang. Ling. 288
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We, the authors of this paper, hereby acknowledge that
the study is our original work which has not been
submitted for publication in another journal elsewhere.
We acknowledge that the Wa Technical University, where
the research was done, exists and is the last of ten
regional polytechnics created by the Government of
Ghana and recently converted into technical universities.
We also acknowledge that the issues raised in the
paper’s findings are real and applying the
recommendations made would help improve upon
teaching and learning of the subject. We are grateful to
students who agreed to participate in the survey. We also
appreciate the cooperation of management of the
institution for granting us permission to undertake such a
research on campus. As a beneficiary of the annual Book
and Research Allowance and Staff Development and
Research Fund of the Ghana Education Trust Fund
(GETFUND), I am personally grateful to the Government
of Ghana for the funds provided to help me undertake
this research.
REFERENCES
Adika, G (2003). Internet use among faculty members of
universities in Ghana. Library Review.
Afful, JBA (2007). Academic literacy and communicative
skills in the Ghanaian University. Nebula 4(3) 141 –
159.
Ankomah et al. (2005). “A review on the concept of
quality in education: Perspectives from Ghana.” EdQual
Working Paper No. 1. Cape Coast: University of Cape
Coast.
Crystal, D (2003). English as a Global Language. 2nd
edition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Dansieh, SA (2015). Quality Issues in the Teaching and
Learning of English at Tertiary Level in Ghana. A
Doctoral Thesis submitted to the University of Bath.
Edwards, N (2000). Language for business: Effective
needs assessment, syllabus design and materials
preparation in a practical ESP case study. English for
Specific Purposes, 19, 291-296.
Esra, E (2008). Prospective English Teachers’ views on
the physical environment, human resources and
program of their departments. M. Phil. thesis. Middle-
EastTechnical University.
European Commission (2000). hA Quality Guide for the
Evaluation and Design of Language Learning and
Teaching Programmes and Materials, CD-ROM
Version.
Hadfield, J and Charles (2008). Introduction to teaching
English. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Harmer, J (2007). How to teach English. Essex: Pearson
Education Limited.
Harmer, J (2007). The Practice of English Language
Teaching. Essex: Pearson Education Limited.
Hyland, K and Hamp-Lyons, L. (2002). EAP: Issues and
directions. Journal of English for academic
purposes, 1(1), 1-12.
Hyland, K (2006). English for Academic Purposes: An
Advanced Resource Book. London: Routleddge.
ILO, (2007). Skills for improved productivity, employment
growth and development. Report on the International
Labour Conference, 97th Session 2008. 1st Edition.
ISBN -92-2-119489. 978
Johns, AM & Machado, PD (2001). English for specific
purposes: Tailoring courses to student needs and to
the outside world. In M. Celce-Murcia (Ed.), Teaching
English as a second or foreign language (pp. 43-54).
Kirkkopelto, S (2007). Professional English language
needs of Finnish economists working in marketing:
implications for language training in English business
communication. University ofJyväskylä, Department of
English [online], Pro Gradu thesis 2007
http://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:jyu-200801081023 Date of
access: 21.10.2008.
LeClair, C, Doll, B, Osborn, A and Jones, K (2009).
English language learners' and non–English language
learners' perceptions of the classroom
environment. Psychology in the Schools, 46(6), 568-
577.
Owu-Ewie, C (2006). The language Policy of Education in
Ghana: A Critical Look at the English-only Language
Policy. Selected Proceedings of the 35th Annual
Conference on African Linguistics.Mugane et al. (Ed.)
75 – 85. Somerville, MA: Cascadilla Proceedings
Project.
Oxford, R (2001) Integrated Skills in the ESL/EFL
Classroom. ESL Magazine, Vol. 6, n1,
January/February 2001.
World Economic Forum (WEF) 2020. A quarter of the
world speak English – What makes it so popular?
Available at www.weforum.org Retrieved on 28-12-
2020.