UTILIZING THE CASE STUDY METHOD IN TEACHING ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES TO STUDENTS OF ECONOMIC SPECIALTIES FOR DEVELOPING SPEAKING SKILLS

Abstract

The article highlights the use of the case method in teaching English for Specific Purposes (ESP) to students in economic specialties, emphasizing the development of learners’ speaking skills in English. In the context of Ukraine’s integration into the international educational space, proficiency in foreign languages has become a key factor in the professional training of future economists. The paper analyzes various scientific approaches to defining the case study in ESP teaching. The case-study method is explored as an effective pedagogical tool for developing future economists' speaking skills, creativity, and critical thinking. Moreover, the case study fosters idea generation, problem-solving skills, and enhances the motivation of non-linguistic students in ESP learning. Students majoring in economic specialties address real-world professional issues, collaborate, expand business vocabulary, and integrate language practice with professional knowledge. Furthermore, the author explores stages, advantages, and potential challenges in implementing the case study in ESP courses. Practical case studies for students majoring in economic specialties are analyzed. Each case is explored within specific ESP modules and topics, and it describes the key speaking skills developed during its implementation. The results of the pedagogical experiment on implementing the case method in the English for Specific Purposes course for third- and fourth-year students majoring in economics-related specialties at the State University of Economics and Technology demonstrated a significant improvement in speaking skills across seven criteria after its application. Moreover, the article offers recommendations for effectively using the case study method to enhance professional speaking skills.