The effectiveness of problem-based projects to improve problem-solving skills in an ESP Course: An action research

Problem-solving is one of the critical skills recruiters seek in job applicants; therefore, it is essential that undergraduates acquire these skills before getting to the real world of work. In the context of the University of Languages and International Studies, case-based projects have been applied in the English for Business Communication course under the name of “Mini-workshop” in order to prepare the students with the aforementioned skills. This study focuses on assessing the effectiveness of problem-based learning to boost problem-solving skills of third-year students in English for Business Communication course. Participants are 72 English-majored students at FELTE, ULIS, VNU, coming from 3 different classes. Data is collected and processed quantitatively and qualitatively through surveys and group interviews. The results indicate a positive pattern of students gradually forming the habit of applying step-by-step procedures presented in the course to analyze contributing factors and generate and evaluate solutions. Furthermore, participants reported that various cases helped learners contextualize possible dilemma situations in the workplace and how to deal with the problems. However, some drawbacks in applying the case reduce its efficiency; thus, some pedagogical recommendations are suggested in the research.