The Study of EFL Students' Perceptions of Their Problems, Needs and Concerns over Learning English: The Case of MA Paramedical Students

Many English language courses in academic settings are based on the principle that language should be related to the purpose for which students are expected to use language after their studies. But the majority of the MA students are dissatisfied with the current ESP courses. Learning of English at MA level in Iran catches attention of few researchers especially when the issue is related to the classroom situations. Realizing the need for more investigation, this study aimed at exploring Iranian EFL students' perceptions of their problems, needs and concerns over learning English at the university context using a qualitative approach. Data were drawn from a series of questions regarding what the students' English problems and their English educational needs are. The questions were administered to 69 English students in four intact nursing and midwifery groups. The data were enriched by arranging semi-structured interviews to fill in the gaps in answers. The main inhibition in learning English was the role of English in the society as a foreign language and attrition mainly due to intervals between phases of learning English and lack of free time to spend on learning English. The results also revealed that reading, translating and writing skills have been rated as the most important skills needed. Furthermore, the students indicated need for listening and speaking skills. Hence, there is an urgent need for revision and reconsideration of English instruction in the Iranian educational system in a way that help students fulfill their needs at MA level. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Ltd.