PROBLEMS IN TEACHING ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES IN NON-LINGUISTIC UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

Teaching English for specific purposes (ESP) in non-linguistic universities faces a number of challenges that hinder students' language development and academic success. Primarily, this article focuses on four interrelated issues: insufficient opportunities for communication and practice of English, limited student autonomy, lack of creative thinking, and lack of specialized training for ESP teachers. As ESP teaching becomes essential in higher education, more attention is given to creating an academic environment that supports students’ independent learning and develops their creative thinking. Therefore, several methodological possibilities have been recommended to foster skills necessary not only for academic life but also for a globalized workforce. Moreover, the article discusses the principles of active authentic communication and student engagement in the classroom highlighting useful activities. Finally, tandem and collaborative ways of teaching have been suggested to blend language-focused strategies with field-specific pedagogies.