Speaker
Description
FROM UNIVERSITY ENGLISH TO WORKPLACE ENGLISH: ADAPTATION EXPERIENCES OF ENGLISH-MAJOR GRADUATES ACROSS SOCIO-EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUNDS
TRẦN THỊ NGỌC DIỆU
Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City
Email: dieutranle97@gmail.com
Abstract
The transition from university English learning to workplace English using would lead to communicative challenges for English-major graduates. This research aims to investigate how English-major graduates perceive these challenges. Then, this research explores how their socio-educational backgrounds would shape their perceptions and adaptation. Participants are 100 graduates working in different fields of English-related jobs. This study employs an explanatory sequential mixed- methods design, beginning with a quantitative phase using questionnaire, then uses a qualitative phase involving semi-structures interviews. Quantitative data is being analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentage, means and standard deviations. Meanwhile, qualitative interview data is being examined thematically to identify recurring challenges, strategies and adaptation experiences. The study is expected to reveal the perceived gap between university-based English learning and workplace English, as well as differences in graduates’ adaptation experiences across their socio-educational backgrounds. The findings are expected to provide practical implications for English language education and the enterprises by adding an extra curriculum development and helping English-major graduates better in preparing for workplace communication.
Key words: English learning, workplace English, ESP, adaptation, socio-educational backgrounds
Bio data: Tran Thi Ngoc Dieu is now taking a Master Program in English. Her research interests focus on English in workplace contexts, particularly how English is used and adapted in multinational companies as Vietnam becomes increasingly integrated into the global business environment.