Bridging the Gap: The Need for a Specialized English Curriculum for Mechanical Engineering Students at ENSEM Engineering School, Hassan II University

Abstract

The "Business English and Soft Skills" course at ENSEM Engineering school, Hassan II University aims to enhance general language proficiency but fails to meet the specific linguistic needs of mechanical engineering students. This study identifies a critical gap in the curriculum, which prioritizes business communication and soft skills while overlooking technical vocabulary, genre-specific communication, and technical writing essential for engineering contexts. Through a mixed-methods approach combining content analysis, teaching observations, and needs assessment, this research highlights the misalignment between the course objectives and the professional demands of mechanical engineering. The findings underscore the necessity of a specialized English for Specific Purposes (ESP) curriculum tailored to engineering students, focusing on technical vocabulary, precise writing, and effective oral communication in technical contexts. The study advocates for adopting a genre-based pedagogical approach to bridge this gap, equipping ENSEM graduates with the linguistic competencies required to excel in the global engineering industry.