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International Symposium: Advancing English for Specific Purposes through Effective Curriculum Development and Materials Design

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On June 30, 2023, the School of Foreign Languages at the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City proudly hosted the International Symposium on Curriculum Development and Material Design in English for Specific Purposes (ESP). The symposium had the overarching theme of Advancing English for Specific Purposes through Effective Curriculum Development and Materials Design. Its objective was to bring together educators, researchers, and practitioners specializing in ESP to explore innovative approaches, exchange best practices, and discuss current trends and challenges in curriculum development and material design for specific purposes in English.

The symposium warmly welcomed distinguished guests from various organizations, including Ms. Nguyen Tran from the Regional English Language Office (U.S. Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City) and Ms. Phuong Nguyen from Macmillan Publisher. The School of Foreign Languages was also honored to welcome four keynote speakers who are prestigious experts in language education. They were Associate Professor Jonathan Newton from Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand), Professor Jessie Barrot from the National University of the Philippines, Dr. Dang Tan Tin from Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education, and Dr. Pham Huy Cuong from Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance. The event attracted over 80 participants, including scholars, educators, researchers, and postgraduate students from UEH and other educational institutions throughout Ho Chi Minh City.

Throughout the symposium, a wide range of topics were explored, including innovative approaches to curriculum design, the integration of technology in materials development, and the importance of needs analysis and learner-centered instruction. Associate Professor Jonathan Newton started the event with an insightful talk on the diffusion of innovation in education, which had significant implications for ESP.

Professor Jessie Barrot continued with a presentation on innovative approaches in ESP materials design, introducing different frameworks underlying the process of designing effective materials for ESP programs.

Dr. Pham Huy Cuong, the head of the Faculty of English (UEF), showcased his research on ESP curriculum design and implementation, emphasizing the industry’s role in developing ESP curriculum.

 The event concluded with a panel discussion on trends and challenges in ESP curriculum development. Dr. Dang Tan Tin, the head of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, joined other speakers in sharing their perspectives and experiences in the field of ESP curriculum development. The insightful presentations and thought-provoking discussions undoubtedly enriched the understanding of ESP and provided participants with practical strategies to implement in their classrooms and institutions.

The symposium served as a platform for abundant knowledge sharing, idea exchange, and the dissemination of experiences, significantly shaping the trajectory of ESP education. Furthermore, it successfully facilitated the establishment of a network comprising experts, scholars, researchers, educators, and students actively engaged in a community of practice, dedicated to enhancing their own capacity and the quality of teaching and learning in foreign language education.