Identifying English Language Problems of Novice Engineering Students

Abstract

English has a paramount role in this digital world of internet and mobile technology. Digital technology has facilitated language learning. This study focused on identifying English language problems of novice engineering students in this modern age of scientific advancement.Convenience sampling method was used since the principal researcher taught the subject of Functional English to participants. Eighty engineering students were surveyed. Research instruments were document analysis and classroom observation. Data were analyzed through an interpretative approach to drawing study outcomes. Results exhibited engineering students faced English language problems in the English language classroom context. Multiple English language problems surfaced, such as poor vocabulary, spelling errors,grammatical errors, writing problems, comprehension problems, and accepting teacher dictation. Additionally, psychological problems were shyness, low self-confidence, nervousness, fear of peer criticism and stage fright.