Optimizing Cybersecurity Threat Detection: The Power of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) Proficiency

This study investigates the function of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) training in the capacity of the student in the identification and analysis of cybersecurity threats. Using the quasi-experimental mixed-methods approach, the data were collected from the participation of 100 participants consisting of 50 ESP-trained software engineering students and 50 non-ESP-trained computer engineering students. The study assessed ESP-related grammar, syntax, vocabulary, word formation, and contextual usage through a language proficiency test, alongside a survey on students' perceptions of ESP training’s effectiveness in cybersecurity analysis. The respondents also engaged in interactions using cybersecurity texts and the TryHackMe platform in cyberattack reportage and analysis. Results demonstrated significant improvement among ESP-trained participants in threat analysis, technical reportage, and analytic reasoning. Gender-based differences were observed, as male participants were more assertive in terms of the risk assessment, while female participants were more precise in the documentation. Digital platforms were also observed to have the critical function in the facilitation of ESP learning and cybersecurity training. These results suggest towards the demand for the incorporation of ESP into cybersecurity education in bridging the linguistic-technical skills gap towards enhanced preparation in actual cyber threat identification and management. Future research should also explore the long-term implication of ESP training towards professional practice in cybersecurity and explore adaptive approach towards the acquisition of the specific field.