A Syllabus-Based Review of English Communication Courses in Management Programs of Assam

Abstract

English has become an indispensable tool for academic and professional communication, particularly in management education where graduates are expected to demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills. Recognizing the growing importance of workplace communication, management institutions have incorporated English communication courses into their curricula. This study examines how English communication is conceptualized and delivered in MBA programs across selected public and private institutes in Assam.
The study aims to explore how English communication is introduced and framed in MBA programs. It examines the objectives, content, and teaching methods outlined in business communication syllabi and assess the alignment between course contents and real-world managerial communication needs. The study also aims to identify shared trends, strengths, and curricular gaps to strengthen future course design.
A qualitative comparative syllabus analysis was undertaken using MBA curricula and course documents collected from selected institutions. The analysis was guided by the principles of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and needs analysis frameworks proposed by Hutchinson and Waters (1987) and Dudley-Evans (1998). Course objectives, content areas, pedagogical approaches, and assessment strategies were systematically examined to fulfil the objectives.
The findings indicate that while communication courses are widely included in MBA curricula, considerable variation exists in their scope and orientation. Most courses emphasize oral communication and presentation skills, whereas workplace writing tasks receive relatively less attention. The study concludes that greater alignment with industry communication practices is needed through needs-based and practice-oriented curriculum design.