Exploring the Suitability of the Textbooks of the Intensive English Program to Students’ Language Proficiency at King Khalid University

Abstract

This study aims to identify the correspondence between the textbooks of the Intensive English Program and students’ language proficiency at King Khalid University in Saudi Arabia. In addition, it explores the differences in the level of language proficiency of the students based on the variables of gender and course specialization. A test was constructed to measure the level of language proficiency, and valid responses from 408 male and female students were collected. The results demonstrated the correspondence between the textbooks of the Intensive English Program and students’ language proficiency. Moreover, the findings revealed that there were no statistically significant differences attributed to the variables of gender and course specialization. Based on the results, the following recommendations to reinforce the program were provided: conducting placement tests for students to accommodate them in the appropriate levels of language proficiency and prescribing  textbooks that are suitable for all language levels from beginners to advanced.