Needs Analysis of English Writing for Medical Students: A Case Study

Abstract

English writing ability is a critical talent in English study, comprising a significant part of the curriculum. As a special group, medical students have high English writing expectations. Therefore, medical students will face numerous challenges when writing in English, specifically academic English writing. However, there has been minimal research on the English writing needs of medical students in recent years. The current study uses Hutchinson and Water’s needs analysis theory to investigate the English writing needs of sophomore medical students from one Chinese medical university. The current research aims are to understand the needs of medical students for English writing and provide some recommendations for future English writing instruction. This study attempts to answer the following questions: (1) What is the current state of medical students’ English writing? (2) What are the current needs of English writing for medical students? The current study found that current English writing courses for medical students are inadequate. Although most students agree that English writing is important, they are not satisfied with their English writing. They devote limited time each week to studying English, and they still have difficulty doing simple written communication and expressions in English, let alone writing related to their major. Although teachers’ guidance is helpful, they do not give appropriate attention and guidance. In summary, English writing learning is neglected by teachers and students. All medical students have an immense need for language, logic, and writing resources.

Keywords: medical students; English writing; needs analysis; English for Specific Purposes