A PROPOSAL FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF BUSINESS ENGLISH TEACHERS IN SERBIA – OVERVIEW OF THE RESEARCH

Abstract

This paper gives an overview of the empirical research conducted in the doctoral thesis entitled “A New Model of Professional Development of Business English Teachers in Serbia: Theoretical, Methodological and Practical Aspects”. Having noticed that professional needs of Business English teachers in Serbia were not sufficiently recognized, the research aimed to analyse the current situation regarding Business English teaching and professional development of teachers so as to gain data necessary for creating a proposal of a model of development that would fully respond to teachers’ pedagogical demands. The sample included 85 teachers and 349 students of Business English. Data collected through questionnaires and interview were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results were largely consistent with contemporary research in the fields of LSP (Languages for Specific Purposes) and professional development of teachers. A few points which reflected a traditional approach to education concerned students’ perception of teachers’ roles and field competencies, and teachers’ expectations with regard to obtaining ready-made pedagogical solutions. The proposed model advocates a bottom-up and reflective approach to professional development, encourages both self-directed learning and collaboration, and offers content that suits teachers’ diverse experience and working contexts.