Scientific and technical English for non-English speaking background graduates
Linguistic and cultural needs of non-English Speaking background graduates in science and technology fields are currently not being met due to the lack of specific language and communication programs. This paper discusses the development of an innovative Scientific and Technical English curriculum to be offered in university as well as industrial settings, with the aim of providing language and acculturation bridging programs for the overseas qualified professionals, to satisfy Australia’s educational and industry requirements. It describes the aims, design and outcomes of a modular, socio-cultural, negotiated curriculum, written from a perspective of training in its broad sense with education playing an integral part. The acquisition of communicative skills in English which will enable the learners to access and function in positions commensurate with their overseas qualifications and experience is seen as the ultimate objective of the program.