English Language Proficiency Program for First Year Medical Undergraduate Students of Vernacular Medium

ABSTRACT

Objective: To improve English language of newly admitted 1st MBBS students from vernacular medium byimplementing English Language Proficiency Program (ELPP).Method: English Language Proficiency Program of 40 hours’ duration was implemented for 38 Gujarativernacular medium students of 1st MBBS. ELPP was delivered by Expert English language teacher. ELPPincludes reading, writing, speaking and grammar. ELPP was evaluated through Pre and Post-test for Englishlanguage component like, reading & comprehension, vocabulary, grammar & written expression. Studentfeedback was also taken at the end of program.Results: English language proficiency programme significantly improved the vocabulary and writtencommunication, however no significant improvement was observed in grammar and reading comprehension.Majority of students rated the course as good to excellent. Large numbers of students felt that the coursewas useful and improved their communication skills.Conclusion: English language course for student of 1st MBBS vernacular medium was received well. Studentalso rated the program as useful for improving their language proficiency and communication skills.