Journal of English Language and Pedagogy (JELPA)
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): MAY (IN PROGRESS)

Sociolinguistic Awareness and ESP Curriculum Design: A Framework for Enhancing Authenticity and Learner Engagement

Eslam Yacoub (Alamein International University)



Article Info

Publish Date
17 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of sociolinguistic awareness - encompassing culture, professional identity, power relations, and discipline-specific discourse norms - into English for Specific Purposes (ESP) curriculum design, and its implications for task authenticity and learner engagement. A qualitative-dominant mixed-methods design triangulated systematic document analysis of 64 curriculum units, semi-structured interviews with 15 ESP faculty members, and a questionnaire administered to 338 students across computer science, engineering, pharmacy, and business programs. Document analysis revealed a hierarchical pattern: professional discourse norms were most explicitly addressed, while power relations were absent in nearly two-thirds of materials. Interview data identified systemic constraints - curricular rigidity, misaligned assessment, and insufficient pedagogical training - that inhibit implementation. Student data demonstrated that sociolinguistically framed tasks were perceived as significantly more authentic and were associated with higher cognitive, behavioral, and emotional engagement. These findings collectively indicate that the marginalization of sociolinguistic dimensions represents a structural limitation on ESP curriculum effectiveness. The study proposes an evidence-based framework that repositions sociolinguistic awareness as a core design principle, essential for preparing learners for meaningful participation in professional discourse communities.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jelpa

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Journal of English Language and Pedagogy (JELPA) is an open access journal managed by English Education Study Program of Universitas Kapuas. The published articles are in the field of: Teaching Methodologies in ELT Media in ELT English Curriculum Material Development Language Assessment Teachers ...