The challenges of English speaking and writing competencies for English for medical studies : a case study of first year medical students at Sefako Makgatho University in Gauteng Province, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges of writing and speaking proficiency for English for Medical Studies (EMS) of students who are doing first year in Sefako Makgatho Health Science University (SMU). Qualitative and quantitative research was conducted to determine the views and perceptions of the participants. Data was collected through interviews and paper survey with a selected sample of respondents, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. Themes were generated to present the data based on the study's objectives, which were aligned with the literature review. The study has highlighted how important knowledge of basic English skills is and how it affects students in the medical field. The findings revealed that even though the English subject is taught throughout high school students still lack writing and speaking proficiency in order for them to engage and thrive in English for Medical Studies courses. The study recommends that during first year relevant content be designed in modules such Academic Literacy (AL) to develop essential skills such as writing and speaking.