CASE METHOD IN TEACHING ENGLISH FOR PROFESSIONAL PURPOSES: DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING AND PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION OF AGRONOMY STUDENTS

Abstract

The article explores the use of the case method in teaching English for Specific Purposes (ESP) to 3rd-year agronomy students, with a focus on developing critical thinking, teamwork, and professional communication. In the context of globalisation and integration of Ukraine into the international scientific and educational space, English proficiency is essential for future agronomists, enabling access to global knowledge, participation in professional discussions, and effective problem-solving in professional settings.The study implements professionally oriented case scenarios based on real agronomic challenges, including pest infestation in wheat fields, fertiliser shortages, and environmental issues such as water pollution. Students worked in pairs or small groups to analyse problems, evaluate alternative solutions, justify their decisions in English, and present recommendations. The cases combined language practice with practical professional competence, emphasising argumentation, analytical reasoning, and decision-making skills.Teaching activities were structured in stages: preparation, introduction, group work, presentation, and reflection. Observations and student feedback demonstrated high engagement, motivation, and improvement in critical thinking, collaboration, and professional language skills. Students highlighted the relevance of tasks to real-life agricultural situations and the value of discussion, role-play, and debate in understanding the complexity of agronomic decision-making.The article provides recommendations for implementing case-based ESP learning, including adapting cases to local agricultural contexts, integrating active learning methods, applying portfolio-based assessment, and developing interdisciplinary scenarios combining agronomy, ecology, and economics. The study concludes that the case method is an effective pedagogical tool for enhancing professional competence and critical thinking in agronomy students, while fostering motivation and practical language use in English.