English for specific purposes in Algerian higher education: Addressing business english teaching challenges and methodological gaps
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Abstract
In the Algerian higher education context, teaching English for Specific Purposes (ESP)—defined as designing English instruction tailored to students’ professional fields—has become increasingly important as academic institutions aim for greater internationalization and adapt to global labor-market needs. Business English, a subfield of ESP focusing on communication skills for business-related disciplines, is one of the most critical ESP subfields. It prepares students in economics, management, and commercial sciences for real-world professional communication. However, implementing Business English in Algerian universities faces pedagogical, institutional, and methodological difficulties. This study explores challenges faced by Business English teachers in Algerian higher education, using a qualitative case study with semi-structured interviews of five instructors. The findings reveal problems: no formal needs analysis (systematic assessment of student and professional requirements), ESP training, specialized syllabi, or collaboration with subject-matter experts, and limited institutional support. Despite these constraints, instructors show adaptability and resilience, designing their own materials and pursuing informal professional development. The paper ends with recommendations for reform: develop national ESP curricula, provide structured training, and encourage more interdisciplinary collaboration.
Keywords: English for Specific Purposes (ESP); Business English; Algerian higher education; teacher training; syllabus design; institutional challenges; qualitative case study.
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