ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES: A REVIEW OF TEACHING APPROACHES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53360/3080-387X-2026-1-2(6)-151-162Keywords:
english for specific purposes, english language teaching, teaching methods, foreign language education, professional language learning, vocabulary acquisition, language skills.Abstract
This study examines the development and current state of teaching approaches in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) within Kazakhstani and international higher education contexts. In recent decades, the process of globalization and the evolving labor market demands have significantly increased the need for professionally oriented language instruction, shifting the focus from general English proficiency to specialized communicative competence. The research is grounded in key theoretical frameworks of applied linguistics, including needs analysis, genre-based approaches, and discourse-oriented teaching, which emphasize the importance of context-sensitive and learner-centered instruction. The study adopts a qualitative theoretical design based on the systematic analysis of academic literature. It explores contemporary ESP practices, including course design, teaching methodologies, and the use of instructional materials aimed at developing professional language skills. The findings reveal that ESP is widely recognized as an essential component of higher education, its practical application often remains inconsistent. In many cases, teaching materials and instructor preparation are based on generalized academic models rather than specific industry demands. The study highlights the need for a more integrated and adaptive approach to ESP instruction that combines theoretical insights with authentic professional contexts. Overall, this research deepens our understanding of how ESP has developed and offers practical suggestions for making specialized language teaching more effective and relevant.
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Copyright presupposes the integrity and responsibility of each co-author who made a significant contribution to the writing of the article.
The author has the right to store his publications in an institutional or other repository of his choice, provided he provides the appropriate link to the journal’s website.