Sustainability in English Language Acquisition: Points to Explore

Abstract

In a globalized world of constantly challenging demands, the acquisition of English as a lingua franca remains essential. Bearing this in mind, the current paper explores how sustainability in English language acquisition can be emphasized to ensure quality outcomes in the long run. The study, as such, raises two questions: what components should an English as a foreign language (EFL) university course comprise to ensure sustainability in English language acquisition, and what are the specifications of an EFL course, designed to ensure sustainability in English language acquisition? Employing a mixed-methods design, the author of this paper distributed a questionnaire and conducted an interview covering two categories of subjects; namely, EFL instructors and university students. The study findings stress the need to integrate literature, life skills, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), communication skills, environment-awareness education, and human values into English language courses. In addition, the findings highlight several specifications for an EFL course designed to ensure sustainability in English language acquisition, such as utilizing technological advancements, tailoring English courses as per current trends, focusing on students’ research projects, encouraging community involvement, conducting co-curricular activities, and implementing Knowledge-Skill-Disposition (KSD)-oriented assessments. The study ends with a proposed framework for scholars to consider.