Enhancing Technical English Proficiency Through Project-Based Learning: A Case Study of Japanese Engineering Students

The establishment of TSMC’s semiconductor fabrication facility in Kumamoto, Japan has highlighted the urgent need for Japanese students to develop stronger English language skills for the global workplace. This study investigates how project-based learning and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) approaches can increase student engagement and proficiency in technical English. Research was conducted through two primary channels: the “Global English for the Workplace” course and bi-weekly activities at the IoT-AI Center. Using a mixed-methods approach, we collected data through pre- and post-surveys of Japanese engineering students from 2024 onwards. The findings demonstrate that students showed significant improvement in English proficiency when engaged in self-selected technical projects. Additionally, this approach fostered the development of metacognitive skills essential for continued language learning beyond graduation. The study provides valuable insights for educators seeking to prepare Japanese students for international technical environments, particularly in the semiconductor industry. Our results suggest that integrating ESP with project-based learning creates a more effective framework for technical English education in Japan.