VOKASI NEWS – This English Module project at PT Xx Manufacturing Surabaya offers a practical and accessible learning tool focused on workplace vocabulary and pronunciation.

In today’s interconnected global economy, effective communication is no longer a soft skill – it’s a foundational pillar for success. For multinational companies like PT Xx Manufacturing Surabaya, ensuring employees can communicate clearly and confidently in English is paramount. This was the driving force behind a recent final project at Universitas Airlangga: the creation of an English learning module specifically designed for the employees of PT Xx Manufacturing Surabaya, focusing on practical vocabulary and pronunciation skills.

This isn’t just another dry textbook or generic online course. This project took a deeply human-centered approach, recognizing that learning is most effective when it’s relevant, accessible, and integrated seamlessly into daily life. The module, hosted on the company’s existing SharePoint platform, was crafted with the employees’ specific needs and daily routines in mind.

Why SharePoint? It’s All About Accessibility

One of the key innovations of this project was its strategic use of SharePoint. Instead of introducing a new, unfamiliar system, the module leveraged a platform already ingrained in the company’s operations. This thoughtful decision removes common barriers to learning – no new software to install, no complicated access procedures. It’s about meeting employees where they are, making learning a natural extension of their workday, and fostering a sense of ease and familiarity.

Vocabulary That Speaks to Their Day-to-Day

Imagine trying to learn English using words you’ll never use in your job. Frustrating, right? This module avoids that pitfall entirely. Through careful observation and a “needs analysis” approach (a core principle of English for Specific Purposes, or ESP), the vocabulary included is directly relevant to the manufacturing environment at PT Xx Manufacturing Surabaya.

The English module’s vocabulary themes read like a snapshot of a typical workday: “Reporting a Machine Problem,” “Team Coordination During Line Changeover,” “Health and Safety Vocabulary,” and “Workplace Tools and Equipment” are just a few examples. Each word comes with clear definitions, both in English and Indonesian, and critically, example sentences that reflect real-life workplace scenarios. This ensures that employees are not just memorizing words, but understanding how to use them effectively in their specific context.

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Pronunciation: More Than Just Sounds

Clear pronunciation is often overlooked but is incredibly vital, especially in an industrial setting where miscommunication can have serious consequences. This English module tackles pronunciation head-on, offering comprehensive support for every vocabulary item.

Each word features:

• Phonetic Transcriptions (IPA): Sourced from the reliable Cambridge Dictionary Online, these visual guides help learners see exactly how sounds are formed and where emphasis should be placed within a word.
• Audio Recordings: The writer meticulously created audio recordings for each word and example sentence, carefully imitating native speaker models from the Cambridge Dictionary. This allows employees to hear the correct pronunciation, including natural prosody like word stress and intonation, and practice imitating it themselves.

This dual approach of visual and auditory learning is powerful, helping to prevent misunderstandings and build confidence in spoken English.

A Stepping Stone to Greater Confidence

While this project focused on the creation and conceptual design of the module, its potential impact is clear. It represents a significant step towards empowering employees at PT Xx Manufacturing Surabaya with the English communication skills they need to thrive in a globalized workplace. By offering a relevant, accessible, and user-friendly tool, this English module aims to foster not just language proficiency, but also greater confidence and effectiveness in daily professional interactions. It’s a testament to how thoughtful design and a human-centered approach can make a real difference in workplace learning.

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Penulis: June Nathaniela Putri

Editor: Oky Sapto Mugi Saputro