Exploring the Feasibility and Educational Suggestions for Integrating OBE Educational Concepts into Higher Vocational English Courses

Abstract

In response to the English curriculum standards of higher vocational colleges in both society and the nation, this study explores the feasibility of applying Outcome-Based Education (OBE) concepts into higher vocational English courses. A teaching experiment was conducted with 161 students selected from 4 parallel classes at a public higher vocational college in Guangdong Province. The intervention involved teachers in the experimental class utilizing the "Design Plan for the Application of OBE Educational Concepts in Hotel English Courses" provided by the researchers, while the control class proceeded with regular teaching methods. Following an 8-week intervention period, it was found that students in the experimental class demonstrated significantly higher academic performance compared to those in the control class, indicating the positive impact of integrating OBE educational concepts into higher vocational English courses. At the same time, researchers randomly selected 8 students for semi-structured interviews. The results of the interviews revealed that students in the experimental class responded positively and demonstrated recognition and acceptance of the OBE teaching method. Conclusion: The application of the OBE educational concept in higher vocational English courses is deemed feasible. As a result, the researchers have provided educational recommendations for English teachers in higher vocational schools, aiming to foster innovation and enhance educational quality in the field.