International Journal of Research Studies in Education
Special Luminary Issue
2025
Volume 14 Issue 2
Available Online: 20 February 2025
Author/s:
Ngo, Duyen
Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam (duyennnt@uef.edu.vn)
Le-Khanh, Hoang*
Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam (hoanglk@uef.edu.vn)
Abstract:
In an era of global environmental and social challenges, education plays a critical role in fostering sustainable development and responsible citizenship. This study investigates the role of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in English language education, focusing on how sustainability principles are incorporated within language textbooks. ESD, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizes the importance of fostering awareness and action on global sustainability issues through education. The integration of ESD into language education not only promotes sustainable development awareness but also enhances students’ linguistic and critical thinking competencies. The review synthesizes existing literature on ESD’s evolution, curricular integration, and pedagogical benefits, alongside a content analysis of language coursebooks. Findings reveal that while sustainability themes are present, there remains a need for a more systematic approach in textbooks to fully address ESD goals. The study concludes with implications for educators and textbook designers and recommends further research to enhance the role of ESD in English language learning.
Keywords: Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), English language education, language coursebooks, sustainability in education
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2025.25816
Cite this article:
Ngo, D., & Le-Khanh, H. (2025). Language education for sustainable development: The role of ESD in English language education and textbooks. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 14(2), 157-166. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2025.25816
* Corresponding Author