Enhancing Professional Communication Skills in Teaching English for Specific Purposes

Abstract

The main goal of the paper is to discuss the topic of enhancing communication skills in foreign language learning, especially in English for Specific Purposes (ESP). In ESP, professional-patient communication is essential, inevitable, and a basic requirement for productivity. Through conducting a case study involving different groups of English for Healthcare Purposes (EHP) students, information will be collected regarding student needs, the challenges they face, and their commitment to professional-patient communication. The results of the case study will identify new strategies that students can implement to develop their skills. The participation of a simulated patient (SP), a new and integral part of the course, is an important aspect of the study. Teaching professional communication techniques through specific language activities also plays an important role in the study. The ideas and materials presented could be useful for foreign language teaching for specific purposes and also within the broader context of general foreign language teaching.