Teaching English for medicine as an approach applied to language for specific purposes in Benin health schools

Abstract

Abstract : The English language, due to its role in the world today, has become the cornerstone of higher education development. One’s ability to speak specific English to his domain is a good asset required by job market and scientific research. The present study sought to point out the difficulties and challenges to ESP teaching-learning at medical schools. To that perspective, 150 respondents split into 100 medical learners, 20 ESP teachers and 30 healthcare professionals have been sampled from Medico –Social Training School (EFMS) of Parakou to participate in the survey. Data have been collected through questionnaires, interviews and class observation. The analysis performed with SPSS software showed that teachers are faced with lack of modern teaching materials, learners’ demotivation in classes and large class size. The courses’ contents do not fit the learners’ needs as well as the teaching method adopted by teachers. Keywords: English for medicine, approach, specialty, Benin, health schools