ESP x ESL WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

It can be said that English for Specific Purposes (ESP) differs from English as a Second Language (ESL) due to the fact that it concentrates more on language context than on teaching grammar and structure of a language. In ESL classes, the learners not necessarily need to be focused on the same goal; learners may have different objectives and different perspectives towards the target language independently of the teacher’s attitude or methodology. However, ESP students will often belong to a group with specific needs and reasons to study a certain language. ESP covers a variety of subjects involving different areas of knowledge. It is usually applied for individuals who have some acquaintance with the target language and need to learn it in order to use it in their professional lives. Another difference is that ESL practices will cover the main four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing in a more equal level, whereas ESP will often require previous analysis to determine which skills are more relevant for each context faced by the teacher and students. It is mandatory for the teacher to get to know the students’ needs are before starting effectively any ESP course. ESP classes will provide students to bring the target language to their professional area of study or interest. This can be highly motivating for them and it will give them more confidence towards the language they are learning.
The role of the ESP teacher has a particular importance due to the necessity of selecting, designing, organizing course materials and evaluating students’ progress in order to give students some feedback along the process. The role of the learner as well, is to get engaged, keep focused on his or her objectives and special reasons for taking the course. A good ESP learner should be able to make use of the resources available along the classes and bring them to an effective use or daily practices, personally or professionally.
If we hope to see ESP growth, it is vital that the community as a whole understands what ESP actually represents for the teaching and learning processes. So in the future, others can join with more confidence and carry on improving the practices of ESP classes.