The Integrative Curriculum in EAP Programs: Design and Instructional Considerations

Abstract

International students, specifically students who study English for Academic Purposes (EAP), are an increasingly important and large part of the makeup of Canadian post-secondary institutions. As these students have diverse learning needs and goals, institutions need to properly support these learners to be successful in academic settings. A review of the literature explores the increasing need to support this particular student population; approaches to the teaching, learning, and programming of EAP courses and programs; and strategies in and beyond the classroom to support these learners. This chapter offers design considerations and suggests that EAP curricula be integrative in nature. This can be achieved through choosing relevant topics, incorporating experiential learning opportunities, designing collaborative learning tasks, discussing issues of culture, and planning purposeful community connections. Approaching the development of EAP curricula through an integrative lens will ensure learners who are ready for post-secondary studies in academic fields. Classroom examples from the author’s professional experience are offered. Discussion of how to achieve integrative EAP curricula in virtual learning environments is also included.

Citation

Carter, A. (2023), "The Integrative Curriculum in EAP Programs: Design and Instructional Considerations", Sengupta, E. (Ed.) Integrative Curricula: A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Pedagogy (Innovations in Higher Education Teaching and Learning, Vol. 50), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 83-99. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2055-364120230000050005