Desafios para o ensino da língua inglesa nos cursos técnicos do SENAI-JP: um estudo de caso

Abstract

This work aims at investigating the English language teaching and learning process in technical courses at SENAI/ João Pessoa, considering aspects related to teaching materials, teaching methods, teacher-student and student-student interaction, interdisciplinarity, the relationship between the foreign language and students’ technical education process, as well as the challenges faced within the courses presented. In order to achieve that aim, we did some qualitative research, using participatory observation techniques and a questionnaire, which was answered by two groups of the Eletromechanical Technician Course at the Professional Education Center Odilon Ribeiro Coutinho (CEPORC) in João Pessoa. Data analysis has shown that the approach English for specific purposes (ESP) used as a methodological reference in the classes facilitated the accomplishment of the objectives proposed for the Technical English courses in question. In addition, the analysis of the interactions between the teacher and students and among students, and of the interdisciplinary proposal of the course by the students interviewed revealed positive aspects. However, the scarcity and poor quality of teaching materials and the limited number of classes are factors that present a negative repercussion on the teaching-learning process of the Technical English course. Although it is a specific case study, the findings of the research allow us to think about possible paths and strategies for improving the process of English teaching in technical courses.