Modernizing ESP Learning: A Constructivist Approach to Using Mobile Learning for ESP Learning in Iranian Context

The aims of the present study were to investigate (1) whether constructivist approach contributes to learning English for Specific Purposes (ESP); (2) whether ESP courses can be modernized through constructivist approach; and (3) whether students’ perceptions of m-learning as a tool to be employed in the ESP courses were positive. To meet these aims, a total of 350 university students in Isfahan in Iran, in the first semester of 2017, who passed the ESP course in different majors, were selected to participatein this study. Data were collected through a five-point Likert scale questionnaire. The questionnaire was consisted of 35 items related to 5 themes. The results indicated that students’ perceptions of modernizing ESP learning through constructivist approach, employing m-learning, and interactive activities were positive. It was concluded that employing constructivist approach in ESP could contribute the students to construct personalized learning, and to experience the immediate usefulness of their ESP course for their future professional development. In addition, utilizing m-learning makes students ready to be creative, think critically, and solve real-world problems. However, m-learning could be useful as a supplementary instrument. Findings suggest that implementing constructivist approach and interactive learning activities in designing Iranian ESP courses could be efficient.

کلیدواژه ها:

Constructivist approach ، English for Specific Purposes (ESP) ، Interactive activities ، Mlearning ، Modernizing ESP Learning