A Study of English Competency in Engineering Profession of Engineering Undergraduate Students at Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon

Abstract

This study aimed to 1) investigate and compare English competency in the engineering profession of engineering undergraduate students at Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon and 2) propose guidelines to enhance English language competency in the engineering profession. This study is mixed-method research using English for Specific Purpose as the research framework. The research area was the Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon. The sample consisted of 300 engineering undergraduate students selected through multi-stage random sampling and 5 key informants including the experts in ESP, instruction and curriculum, and policy and management of engineering education. The research instruments included a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The quantitative part employed frequency, mean, percentage, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA while qualitative part employed content analysis. The research findings revealed that 1) the level of English competency in engineering profession among engineering undergraduate students differed according to gender, year of study, and major, while the English courses enrolled in, the number of years of English study, and work or internship experience did not significantly affect this difference in competency; 2) promoting proficiency should be substantial and integrated across all levels, including curriculum, instruction, extracurricular activities, and professional practice. Emphasis should be placed on English for Specific Purpose, practical application, communication skills development, and collaboration with business establishments to prepare students for international employment. These findings contribute to the body of knowledge on Engineering English development, preparing students for the international workforce.