Evaluating an English Course for Master Students in China: A Case of Business English for Accounting Program

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate a business English course for students registered in Master of Professional Accounting or Accountancy (hereafter MPAcc) based on needs analysis of the degree candidates. An online questionnaire, semi-structured interview and classroom observation were used to gain data on the candidates' perception and motivation of learning Business English, learning needs concerning language skills, course contents and course delivery. The results show that the candidates placed importance on learning the language for practical use in business-related domain in general, and for accounting business in particular, and the current in-house business English syllabus has better satisfied the learners need by adopting up-to-date business literature, engaging the learners in discussion. The findings also reveal some issues in designing and teaching courses of English for Specific Purposes (hereafter ESP), including inadequate involvement of accounting specific knowledge in the course contents, lower-than-expected learning outcomes caused by super-large class sizes and limited course availability. Finally, recommendations are given based on the findings as to revise course syllabus and update course arrangement by taking account of the adult language learners' needs pertaining to MPAcc program.