Needs Analysis in Language Curriculum Design and EAP at Tertiary Level

Abstract

Needs Analysis is a significant issue in language teaching programs, because English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses are designed by examining students‘ purposes and assessing their needs. This study attempts to analyze the Bangladeshi context of EAP, specifically for the students majoring in Arts, Humanities, and Legal Studies. The instruments used included questionnaire for students (n=100) of tertiary level; interviews with teachers (n=10) of two universities (one public and one private) of Chattogram. The study provides an overview of some important issues pertaining to EAP needs analysis in English as Second/Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) contexts. This research provides insights for language policy makers and the practitioners to increase the effectiveness of EAP courses at the tertiary level by through needs analysis.