Master Dissertation Proposal: Verb Tenses in Computing

Science Articles: An ESP Perspective

Introduction:

Effective scientific communication, particularly in computing science, depends on precise verb tenses.
However, non-native English speakers face challenges understanding and using them in academic articles. This
study investigates verb tenses in computing science articles (research papers, conference proceedings, posters)
from the University of Biskra's Department of Computing Science, focusing on their functions and the
challenges faced by non-native speakers within ESP. By examining these aspects, the study aims to contribute
to understanding verb tense usage in computing science and the difficulties non-native speakers encounter,
ultimately informing ESP curriculum development.

1. Research Problem:

Effective communication in scientific writing relies heavily on the precise use of verb tenses. Non-native
English speakers often encounter difficulties in mastering the nuanced application of verb tenses, especially
when navigating the intricate terminology and discourse styles prevalent in academic articles. While existing
studies have explored verb tense usage in scientific writing, with references such as [Flowerdew, J., & Peacock,
M. (2001)] and [Celce-Murcia, M., & Larsen-Freeman, D. (1999)], the unique challenges faced by non-native
speakers remain underexplored, particularly in the context of computing science articles. The University of
Biskra boasts a diverse student populace, including a significant number of non-native English speakers
pursuing studies in computing science.

2.Research Questions: The study is based on the following questions:

RQ1: Dominant Verb Tenses in Computing Science Subgenres

The primary inquiry revolves around discerning the predominant verb tenses employed in various subgenres of
computing science articles. These subgenres include, but are not limited to, research papers within specialized
domains like artificial intelligence or software engineering, conference proceedings emphasizing theoretical or
practical facets, and posters tailored for industry professionals. By dissecting the prevalent verb tenses, the
study seeks to unravel the temporal intricacies inherent in these diverse computing science discourses.

RQ2: Functionality of Verb Tenses in Computing Science Discourse

Building on the first research question, this inquiry aims to elucidate how these identified verb tenses function
within the specific discourse of computing science. It investigates how these tenses convey temporality
concepts such as past research, present state-of-the-art developments, and future directions. Additionally, the
study explores the role of verb tenses in expressing modality aspects, such as certainty, possibility, and
necessity, along with their contribution to rhetorical effects such as persuasion and problem-solving.

RQ3: Challenges Faced by Non-Native Speakers in Verb Tense Usage

This research question addresses the potential challenges confronted by non-native English speakers when
grappling with verb tense usage in computing science articles. The study specifically hones in on areas where
difficulties may arise, such as distinguishing between simple past and present perfect, appropriating the passive
voice, and articulating hypothetical scenarios or future possibilities. Understanding these challenges is pivotal
for tailoring effective pedagogical interventions to enhance the linguistic proficiency of non-native speakers in
the computing science domain.

By dissecting these research questions, this study aims to contribute valuable insights into the nuanced
landscape of verb tense usage within computing science articles. The outcomes are anticipated to inform the
development of targeted teaching materials and strategies, fostering enhanced ESP skills for students embarking
on computing science programs, not only at the University of Biskra but also at other institutions boasting
diverse student populations

2. Literature Review:

While prior research has extensively delved into academic writing and English for Specific Purposes (ESP),
with a focus on the utilization of verb tenses across various disciplines for temporal, attitudinal, and logical
coherence (Biber & Conrad, 2009; Römer, 2014), the intricate rhetorical features and distinct writing styles
characterizing different academic fields have been underscored by studies from scholars such as Hyland (2000)
and Swales (1990).

Despite these comprehensive examinations, there remains a notable dearth of specific investigations into the
usage of verb tenses within the domain of computing science articles. Existing ESP research in computing, as
exemplified by Lee (2020), has primarily concentrated on the vocabulary and grammatical structures endemic
to the field, often overlooking the nuanced deployment of verb tenses and the potential communication hurdles
they may pose.

Studies conducted by Belazi & Tazibt (2018) and Amri & Leffahi (2014) have shed light on the challenges
faced by Algerian and non-native English speakers in comprehending the specialized terminology within
computer science. This study seeks to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by centering its
investigation on the intricacies of verb tense usage within computing science articles. It specifically aims to
identify challenges encountered by non-native speakers, including issues such as distinguishing between simple
past and present perfect (Connor & Upton, 2004), appropriating the passive voice judiciously (Salvi & Macrì,
2017), and effectively expressing modality and hypothetical scenarios (Hunston, 2005). By addressing these
challenges, this study aspires to provide valuable insights for the refinement of ESP curricula tailored to the
distinctive needs of non-native speakers embarking on computing science programs.

3. Aims of the Study:

This study aims to delve into the intricacies of verb tense usage within the realm of computing science articles,
focusing on various subgenres emanating from the department of computing science at the University of Biskra,
Algeria, and framed within the context of English for Specific Purposes (ESP).

4. Methodology:

This study will employ a mixed-methods approach:

 Corpus Analysis: A corpus of 50 computing science articles across diverse subgenres will be collected
from colleagues. Quantitative analysis will be utilized to identify the frequency and distribution of major
verb tenses (such as simple present, simple past, present perfect, etc.) across subgenres.
 Qualitative Analysis: A smaller sample of articles will be selected for in-depth analysis, focusing on
specific verb tense choices and their rhetorical functions within the context of computing science
discourse. Special attention will be given to the use of AI tools if deemed necessary.
 Survey and Interviews: A survey will be conducted among non-native English speakers studying or
working in computer science, exploring their self-perceived challenges and experiences with verb tenses
in the field. Semi-structured interviews will be undertaken with a smaller group to acquire deeper
insights into their specific struggles and learning needs.

4. Expected Results:

This study anticipates uncovering the following findings:

 Differential Use of Verb Tenses Across Subgenres:

 o We expect research papers to exhibit the most diverse verb tense usage, as they encompass a
broader range of functionalities compared to conference proceedings or posters. Conference
proceedings might focus more on past research and present findings, while posters might
prioritize present-tense explanations and future possibilities. However, some overlap between
subgenres might exist.
 Specific Functions of Verb Tenses:
o We will analyze how verb tenses contribute to expressing temporality in terms of past research
developments, current state-of-the-art discussions, and future research directions.
o In terms of modality, we will examine how verb tenses convey certainty when presenting
established theories, possibility when discussing potential applications, and necessity when
outlining procedures or algorithms. For example, the use of the present simple tense might be
prevalent in explaining general coding principles, while the modal verb "may" could be used to
discuss hypothetical scenarios in artificial intelligence research.
o We will investigate how verb tenses contribute to various rhetorical effects. For instance, the
present continuous tense might be used to persuade readers about the ongoing development of a
new technology.
 Challenges Faced by Non-Native Speakers:
o The study anticipates identifying specific challenges related to verb tense usage, including
distinguishing between the simple past and present perfect tenses, using the passive voice
appropriately, and expressing hypothetical scenarios or future possibilities accurately.
o These challenges might be particularly evident in areas like software engineering, where clear
and precise verb tense usage is crucial for describing specific algorithms or software functions.
Additionally, cultural and linguistic backgrounds might influence how non-native speakers
perceive and utilize verb tenses in computing science articles.

By analyzing the verb tense usage in different subgenres and identifying the challenges faced by non-native
speakers, this study aims to contribute valuable insights to all three research questions (RQ1, RQ2, RQ3).

The study expects to find:

 Differential use of verb tenses across subgenres of computing science articles.

 Specific functions of verb tenses to express temporality, modality, and other rhetorical effects relevant to
the field (explaining codes …etc).
 Challenges faced by non-native speakers in understanding and using verb tenses accurately, with
specific areas of difficulty identified.
 5. Significance:

This study will contribute to:

 Understanding how verb tenses function in the specialized discourse of computing science.
 Identifying challenges faced by non-native speakers in mastering verb tenses within this domain.
 Informing the development of more effective ESP teaching materials and strategies for verb tense
instruction in computing science contexts.
6. Timeline:
 Week 1-3: Literature review, corpus selection, research instrument development.
 Week 4-6: Data collection: corpus analysis, survey administration, interviews.
 Week 7-9: Data analysis: quantitative and qualitative data interpretation.
 Week 10-14: Dissertation writing, revision, and defense.
7. Tentative Outline: (write the contents of your chapters briefly)
8. References:

 Flowerdew, J., & Peacock, M. (2001). Issues in EAP: A Preliminary Perspective. Annual Review of
Applied Linguistics, 21, 20-34.
 Celce-Murcia, M., & Larsen-Freeman, D. (1999). The grammar book: An ESL/EFL teacher's course
(2nd ed.). Heinle & Heinle.
 Biber, D., & Conrad, S. (2009). On the interaction of genre and register variation in verb tense: A
corpus-based approach. In I. Römer (Ed.), Register variation in English: Dialects, sociolects, and genres
(pp. 101-120). John Benjamins Publishing Co.
 Lee, J. C. (2020). English for specific purposes in the digital age: A comprehensive overview. TESOL
Quarterly, 54(4), 781-807.
 Römer, I. (2014). Tense in academic discourse: Functions and variation. John Benjamins Publishing Co.
 Römer, U. (2014). Introduction to Varieties of English. John Benjamins Publishing Company.
 Hyland, K. (2000). Disciplinary Discourses: Social Interactions in Academic Writing. Longman.
 Swales, J. M. (1990). Genre Analysis: English in Academic and Research Settings. Cambridge
University Press.
 Connor, U., & Upton, T. A. (2004). Discourse in the Professions: Perspectives from Corpus Linguistics.
John Benjamins Publishing Company.
 Salvi, G., & Macrì, M. (2017). The Passive in English: A Comparative Analysis with Italian.
 Hunston, S. (2005). Pattern Grammar: A Corpus-Driven Approach to the Lexical Grammar of English.
John Benjamins Publishing Company.
 Belazi, H., & Tazibt, L. (2018). Challenges in Understanding Computer Science Terminology: A Case
Study of Algerian Students. [Journal or Book Title], [Volume or Page Range].
 Amri, M., & Leffahi, N. (2014). Navigating the Language of Computer Science: A Study of Non-Native
English Speakers. [Journal or Book Title], [Volume or Page Range].