Effects of ESP in developing learner’s lexical competence A Case Study of First Year EFL LMD Students at Mohamed Kheider University of Biskra

Abstract

Abstract Lexical competence is essential in second and foreign language acquisition. Since vocabulary is a simple index of telling the standard of proficiency, the teachers search for ways to develop their learners‟ lexical knowledge. ESP is one of the most important classes for EFL learners, which could enhance their words knowledge in different areas. The current study explored the acquisition of vocabulary through ESP courses in oral expression (speaking) in order to develop their lexical competence. This study was conducted with a participant/ students of the third year (LMD) at Mohamed KhiederBiskra (a sample of 26 students) and teachers of ESP course for the sake of obtaining their views. To achieve the mentioned objectives a qualitative approach has been obtained in order to collect data. Moreover, a descriptive method is used by the researcher to analyze data obtained from a questionnaire submitted to students, and an interview that was handed to ESP teachers. The results showed that integrating ESP in EFL training is of great importance. Students are ascribing their difficulties in communication to the lack of vocabulary because they consider the lexical competence is the most fundamental components of communication and they have positive attitudes towards ESP lectures. Both students and teachers asserted that ESP increases EFL learners‟ lexical competence. Finally, the hypotheses have been obtained and the researcher recommends a set of suggestions for Educational policy, course designers, and for both teachers and students to reduce the class size and to develop ESP as a tool of language practice.