A Study on Needs Analysis in English Teaching and Learning Skills for Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Polytechnic Engineering Students Pursuing Degree

Abstract

It is known that one of the most vital indicators in scaffolding teaching and learning is carrying out a needs analysis which is considered part of continuous improvement of the curriculum design. In order for the students to gain knowledge and to achieve success in their future goals, the needs are met through a needs analysis. The aim of this study is to investigate appropriate categories of skills in English language learning required for degree-level students in engineering. A total of 53 students from Electrical and Civil Engineering departments from Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Polytechnic were involved in this research. A survey questionnaire was used in this investigation. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis, and it was discovered that the prospective engineering students perceived learning English as highly important. The results also revealed that the highest skills in needs and order were writing, speaking, listening and reading. The students encountered challenges and difficulties pertaining to grammar, pronunciation, idioms, and vocabulary even though the students’ ability level is Intermediate Upper in English. The needs analysis suggests directions for future research on improving the related skills.

Keywords

• English language learning skills
• needs analysis
• importance
• purpose
• level of ability