Analysis of the learners’ language process in the spanish vocational training education

Abstract

This study seeks to analyse the linguistic needs of students doing a middle vocational training cycle in administration. In Spain, English is a compulsory language subject from the age of 6, signifying that those finishing secondary school level will have taken English lessons 2–4 times a week for approximately 10 years. However, the English levels in Spain are frequently disputed. In order to expose legitimate language levels and assess factors influencing English language education in Spain, a study was carried out involving language assessment and a survey. To complete this study, 55 students from a middle vocational training cycle in administration were recorded having a 5-minute conversation in English with a native English speaker. To analyse the language abilities of these students, an evaluation rubric was used, categorising pupils into three different levels of English communication based on expression and comprehension. And we found that a small percentage of pupils achieved the highest communication level whilst, on the contray, half of them achieved a basic English communication level.