Reading Skill in an ESP Context

Abstract

The research aims to investigate how the combination of Critical Pedagogy approach and computer technologies can enhance ESP reading comprehension skills of university learners. The research problem formulated is whether the Internet-integrated application of Critical Pedagogy techniques can influence ESP academic reading comprehension skills of learners. The methodology includes a pilot study with two groups of ESP students, one attending Internet-integrated Critical Pedagogy language classes and the other attending traditional language classes. Both groups studied the same ESP programme and were interviewed about their learning experiences, reading comprehension abilities, and motivation to read. At the end of the programme, a post-test was taken to evaluate their progress in ESP reading comprehension. The results show that the Internet-integrated instruction of Critical Pedagogy strategies positively influenced learners' reading comprehension and contributed to ESP academic reading skills development in Social Sciences. The research confirms the hypothesis that the principles of Critical Pedagogy in a computer-networked environment can be an efficient methodology for elaborating ESP academic reading skills in Social Sciences.