Regional center for training and training of teachers at fergana state university

5. ESP is a Learning–centered Approach

Hutchinson and Waters (1987) described E.S.P. as a Learning-centered Approach since it doesn’t emphasize language use but language learning. Both authors presented ESP with a metaphorical image (Figure n° 1) showing the relationship between ESP and ELT under the form of a tree.

1.3.Characteristic features of ESP course

Before teaching ESP, the organization of ESP courses is the first step that should not be forgotten. It involves different curriculum, different types of exercises and different materials. To achieve the learning process, ESP courses must be organized based on some elements.

In the case of ESP, English is learnt and taught depending on specific purposes that teachers should be familiar with and should be able to find the right methodology to achieve learning. Hutchinson and Waters proposed the “learning theory” that consists of theoretical basis for the methodology, by helping us to understand how people learn. (Hutchinson and Waters, 1992: 23).

Factors such as the learners´ groups, their age, level or reason they study help teachers to determine the main aspects for a successful learning that meets learners´ needs and expectations successfully. Hutchinson and Waters (1992) have added needs analysis which analyses and discusses the questions of “who”, “why”, “where” and “when” about the learning situation. There exist three factors to be respected in organizing ESP courses: