Analysis of Health Science Students` Academic English Language Needs: The Case of Samara University

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the English language needs of health science students at Samara University. The study is significant because it looks into the English language skills that health science students require for academic success. This would help determine the type of English language instruction that health science students will require in their academic fields of study.  Hence, 131 students from the Health Science College in the academic year 2021/2022 were chosen using a stratified sampling technique, along with, two English language course instructors and, six subject area instructors from Samara University, Ethiopia. To attain this purpose, a mixed-methods research approach was used. The data for this study were collected using a questionnaire, interviews and observations. The quantitative data was analyzed quantitatively by using descriptive statistics, mean and percentage via SPSS 25 version computer software, whereas qualitative data analysis was carried out using descriptive and theme-based procedures and was qualitatively interpreted. The coding and analysis were carried out using the NVivo version 10 computer software.  This study found out why each English language skill is used in the health science academic field of study. The findings also showed that during their internship program, health science students prioritize Basic English language skills, specifically writing and speaking. Therefore, it is recommended that for health science students, English language courses should be designed throughout the undergraduate program taking into account students’ academic field of study.