ICAO-Based Needs Assessment in Thailand's Aviation Industry: A Basis for Designing a Blended Learning Program

The need to implement a program to maximize student potential at Kasem Bundit University – Romklao Campus led to the adaptation by the researchers of Horn and Staker's (2011) Blended Learning Approach (BLA) for English language development. A needs assessment study aimed at improving aviation students’ English language skills was supplemented with qualitative and quantitative data through interviews, survey questionnaire and focus groups. Quantitative data was collected, by administering a survey questionnaire to investigate aviation students’ opinions in regards to language descriptions set by ICAO namely: pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, fluency, comprehension, and interaction.The survey yielded findings that support the need for a Blended Learning Program. The results of the focus groups and interviews further confirmed that there is a need for higher proficiency in English language. The future employees indicated that their skills in English need further improvement before they can pursue a career in aviation. Thus, a Blended Learning Model is deemed necessary.