Maximizing Learning Potential: The Role of Case Studies in the ESP Classroom

Abstract

Case studies have proven to be an effective teaching method in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses, where students often encounter challenges with motivation and engagement. This paper investigates the effectiveness of case studies as a pedagogical tool to enhance language acquisition, boost student motivation and promote critical thinking. A review of the literature, paired with insights from a practical case study designed for an ESP course titled English for Future Engineers, illustrates how case studies offer contextualized learning experiences that directly relate to students' career goals. The paper aligns case studies with Bloom’s Taxonomy, demonstrating how they engage various cognitive processes. A mixed-methods approach was used to evaluate the effectiveness of case studies in an ESP course for engineering students at proficiency levels ranging from B1 to C1 (CEFR). Data were collected through qualitative observations and a quantitative survey to assess student motivation, language acquisition, and the application of English in professional contexts. Data from a student survey shows that the students exposed to case studies in their ESP classes exhibited increased motivation and improved ability to apply English in practical situations. Despite certain challenges, such as the time investment required for case study material creation, both students and teachers affirm the benefits of the integration of case studies in ESP classrooms. Furthermore, the paper examines how modern technology, including generative AI tools, can streamline the case study content creation. The use of these tools can significantly reduce the time required to personalize such materials. Despite challenges, including time constraints 2nd EUt+ INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON LANGUAGES 21 and balancing varying language levels, the paper concludes that case studies are a highly beneficial method for ESP courses. It advocates for broader adoption of this approach, particularly with the aid of modern technologies, across various ESP contexts to maximize student engagement and learning outcomes.European University of Technology (EUt+