English for Specific Purposes in Theory and Practice

Book excerpt: The field of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is among the richest areas of second language research and practice because increasing globalization and changing technologies spawn new modes of intercultural connection and new occasions for second language use.English for Specific Purposes in Theory and Practicecompasses this burgeoning field by presenting new research and commentary from some of the field’s leading scholars. This volume explores ESP from academic (secondary and tertiary), occupational (business, medical, and legal), and socio-cultural perspectives. Recurring motifs throughout the volume are the effects of globalization, English as a lingua franca, and the impact of migrant populations. One of the major questions this volume seeks to answer is, How can ESP instructors meet their own teacher knowledge needs? Also considered is, How have ESP practitioners succeeded in gaining control of the knowledge they need to address their students’ needs?