Specific Features of ESP Classes in Developed and Developing Countries: A Multiple Case Study at Two Universities in Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

The paper presents results of a multiple case study on specific features of ESP classes conducted at two universities, one in Austria as a developed country and one in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a developing country. Drawing on current theoretical and practical research in ESP, the case study focuses on the most important elements of ESP classes in terms of students and subject area needs, authentic materials, content language, teaching methodology and other didactic requirements. The purpose of the study is to determine to which extent the English language courses in B&H higher education fulfill the requirements of ESP methodology and principles, and provide insight into ESP practices in developed countries, in this specific case Austria, comparing them to those in developing countries, i.e. Bosnia and Herzegovina. The results indicate strong differences between the universities in terms of institutional commitment to organization of the courses and development of language skills of students, while the working conditions and lack of systematic approach to needs analysis were similar at both institutions.