Needs analysis for specialized learner populations: Essential methodological improvements

•We survey the reported design, method and procedures in needs analyses (NAs) conducted in specialized English learner populations over the last 30 years.•We identify inconsistencies and gaps in current NA practice.•We detail improvements that can increase the reliability and validity of NAs.•We offer practical recommendations for designing and implementing an NA to form the basis of an L2 course or program.

This study surveys the design, methods and procedures reported in needs analyses (NAs) conducted for specialized English learner populations in varying contexts over the last thirty years (1984–2014). While NA practice has evolved and undoubtedly improved over time, our survey identified several remaining shortcomings and a lack of consistency in the sources, the methods and the interactions between sources and methods that researchers use to gather data and interpret findings, problems which decrease their reliability and validity. To illustrate how methodological rigor in NA practice and reporting can be achieved, we detail the methods and procedure followed in a large-scale task-based NA conducted for non-native English speakers working at a national research institution in the USA. Based on the current NA and the findings of our methodological survey, we provide a set of practical recommendations that are intended to be adaptable for local contexts and useful to language program administrators, curriculum designers and teachers responsible for the design of ESP courses and programs.