Integrating sustainability issues into English language courses at university

Abstract

Education for Sustainable Development is a relatively new methodology that promotes principles of sustainable living and is aimed at integrating sustainability issues into the curriculum at all cycles of formal education. This paper discusses how sustainability development concepts can be taught through English language courses at university. The range of topics that cover sustainable development issues within the framework of key dimensions, such as economy, society, environment and culture is selected in line with the guiding principles of Education for Sustainable Development. The approaches to designing a course in English for undergraduate non-linguistic students through the prism of sustainable development principles are highlighted. It is proposed to develop a syllabus with a focus on the areas that are embedded in the concept of Education for Sustainable Development. These include such topics as gender equality and human rights, sustainable lifestyles, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity. The paper summarizes the findings of the research conducted at universities in Russia and Turkey to develop a strategy for designing English language courses that incorporate sustainability issues.