SCOPE OF ESP AT FOREIGN AND TURKISH CONTEXT

Abstract

Before English was this widespread and used at international arena it was taught at schools as a foreign language without striving for any occupational or individual purposes.  Today, it has become a phenomenon because of the different needs and expectations of individuals due to the globalization of the world, and globalization of education. A close-up study will reveal that mainly at universities and private courses instead of learning a foreign language with all its aspects, people rather prefer to learn it for academic, occupational or specific purposes. They aim to learn it with specially tailored and more functional methods through English for Specific Purpose (ESP). The purpose of this paper is to illustrate ESP teaching and learning through its applications and uses throughout the world and in Turkey . In the study, next to the historical development of ESP, its   definition and characteristics, its types, general English, differences between English for specific purposes and English for academic purposes, it also mentions about drawbacks and benefits experienced in teaching ESP. Both information about ESP teachers and students taking ESP courses, and a definition of the indispensable needs analysis study with its types is provided in detail. Its importance is highlighted by exemplifying why, when, where, to whom, how and with what resources it be implemented. Several international and national needs analysis studies are presented, commented on, evaluated and suggestions proposed on difficulties met by ESP teachers and books tailored specifically for ESP.