Need analysis

Need analysis is an activity to collect the information of what the learning needs are and it can
contribute to successful course planning. It is important to distinguish between need, want and
lack. Needs are those skills which learner perceives as being relevant to him. wants are a subset
of needs, those whch a learner puts at high priority given the time available while lack is the
difference a learner perceives between his present competence in a particular skill and the
competence he wishes to achieve. A variety of data collecting methods are used in needs analysis
such as questionnaires, interviews, observations, self –ratings, meeting, case studies and analysis
of available information.

The process of need analysis involves of a set of decision, actions, and reflection. There are
several types of needs based different point of view. Based on Alderson there are three types of
needs. First, formal needs which refer to the need to meet the institution requirements such as to
pass an exam. Second, actual or obligation need which refers to what a student has to do with the
language once he has learned it and the last is hypothetical future need which refers to the need
to become a better professional in the future, and forth, want, which refers to what a student feels
want to do or to learn. Brindley identifies two types of needs. There are objective need and
subjective need. In other words, the main sources for needs analysis are the learners themselves.

Dudley-Evans & St. John (1998) introduce three different models for needs analysis.
1. PSA (Present Situation Analysis)
The present situation analysis is an analysis of the present condition of teaching and learning
situation.
2. TSA (Target Situation Analysis)
Target situation analysis is an analysis of the work-place where the students will work or use the
language.
3. LSA (Learning Situation Analysis)
LSA is concerned with the learners, teachers and teaching and learning contexts.