Exploring English Language Learning Needs of Pakistani ESL Postgraduate Research Students A Qualitative Study

Abstract

English has gained supremacy as the primary language in a range of domains including business, science, technology, higher education, and research. This dominance has created a necessity for a curriculum that meets learners' needs. In Pakistan, postgraduate students face challenges related to the English language in coursework, research paper writing, and dissertation preparation. The objective of this research was to examine the English language requirements of potential Pakistani postgraduate students, who were pursuing studies in science disciplines. The sample included 26 prospective MS students and 4 prospective PhD students, who were preparing for admission tests. The researchers used a semi-structured questionnaire to collect the data, which had been validated by two experts. Thematic analysis revealed that the prospective postgraduate students needed reading skills for reading and comprehending research papers, followed by writing skills for research proposal writing and thesis writing. Participants also recognized the importance of speaking skills for research presentations and communication with supervisors, and listening skills for better understanding of lectures and seminars. The findings suggest that ESP learner-cantered courses should be offered to Pakistani MS/MPhil and PhD candidates that focus on the four language skills for research purposes.