Abstract:
This research study focuses on a needs analysis and course design for English
for Financial Management students at the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
It aimed to investigate the English language-related challenges faced by
Financial Management undergraduates and the required language skills and
effective learning materials with activities for the undergraduates. The study
employs a mixed method. The data were gathered by conducting interviews
and getting the responses for a questionnaire from a non-probability sample of
fifteen undergraduates. The qualitative data were utilized to understand the
field of study and the quantitative data were used to design and select suitable
course content. This study demonstrated that speaking skills should be
prioritized along with vocabulary development, compared to reading, writing,
and listening. According to students’ responses, the activities related to
improving vocabulary and developing speaking in practical situations are the
most elevated concerns. This study reflected on students’ attitudes towards
‘proficiency in English’ that they consider an essential factor when entering
the future world and their career development from the perspective of a
Financial Management undergraduate. The findings should be implemented
by prioritizing the needs of the students when designing the English for
Financial Management course. This English for Special Purposes course is
determined to overcome the shortcomings and challenges faced by the
students by providing a specific platform to develop speaking skills and
vocabulary.
