Enhancing Pragmatic Competence in ESP: A CorpusBased Approach for Technical University Students

Enhancing the pragmatic competence of language learners is a multifaceted endeavor. Teaching English for Specific Purposes (ESP) presents particular challenges, especially when English is neither the learners’ second language nor their primary field of study at the university level. Instruction often relies on traditional methods, emphasizing standard English grammar. However, the development of pragmatic competence is equally crucial for effective communication. Without it, students may struggle to engage in successful conversations.
Although various pedagogical approaches incorporate pragmatic knowledge, their effectiveness varies. Recently, a method known as “corpus technology” has gained prominence in linguistics, playing a significant role in advancing pragmatic competence. This study seeks to experimentally evaluate the efficacy of corpus technologies in enhancing the pragmatic competence of students at technical universities. The objectives include assessing the significance of corpus technologies in this context, testing their effectiveness, and analyzing the outcomes.
The experimental research was conducted among first-year students at the University of Management and Future Technologies, employing qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Initially, interviewing was used to ascertain students’ needs and interests. Subsequently, a questionnaire gathered information on students’ abilities, learning levels, and styles, and analyzed the results. Concurrently, observation examined the classroom process, student participation, and difficulties encountered. To assess students’ awareness of pragmatic competence, a test was administered at the beginning and end of the experiment.
The research findings indicate that corpus technology significantly enhances the pragmatic competence of students at technical universities. Given the alignment of corpus content with their areas of specialization, students did not encounter difficulties in utilizing these resources. Furthermore, the current technologically advanced era offers increased opportunities for practicing English through technology, making corpus technology an effective means of improving students’ pragmatic competence.