ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES NEEDS ANALYSIS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Abstract

The present paper explores English for Specific Purposes (ESP) needs analysis in higher education. It examines the theoretical development of ESP, from early approaches such as register and rhetorical analysis to skill-centered and learning-centered perspectives. The paper highlights the distinction between ESP and General English and focuses on differences in objectives, content, and learner needs. It also reviews major frameworks of needs analysis, such as Target Situation Analysis, Present Situation Analysis, and Learning Situation Analysis, as well as influential models proposed by Munby, Hutchinson and Waters, and Dudley-Evans and St-John. Furthermore, the present review discusses empirical studies on ESP needs analysis and identifies gaps in existing research. It also informs ESP curriculum design in higher education contexts.