Exploring the Perceptions of Undergraduate Psychology students towards Online Engagement in English for Specific Purpose Classes

Abstract

In today’s global world, online teaching and learning have become an important part of the education system. In Pakistan, Covid-19 has revolutionized the teaching methodology from traditional face-to-face classes to online classes due to the closure of educational institutes. Despite various efforts made by HEC, universities, and teachers, yet students face problems in online classes. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the perceptions of undergraduate psychology students towards online engagement in ESP classes using self-determination theory (SDT). For this purpose, a qualitative study has been utilized and data has been collected in two stages using sociolinguistic profiles and interviews. The data was collected using a purposive sampling size from 35 psychology students enrolled in ESP online course. The data from the sociolinguistic profile has been analyzed using frequency analysis and interview data has been codified for thematic analysis. The findings suggest that both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation play an equal part in online learning. Besides this, the learners reported that learning can happen within online classes, depending on the teacher’s methodology and strategies in online classes. The results are effective for higher education institutes in determining the level of motivation and perceptions respondents have while taking  ESP courses online, which can be made interactive by developing outcome-based courses with the integration of technology to fit the needs of modern education in the post-Covid-19 world.