RICHMOND STROUPE (JALT)
IZUMI KANZAKA (World Language Center )

INTEGRATING GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION, CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS AND DEPTH OF KNOWLEDGE IN AN EAP COURSE : CURRICULUM AND MATERIALS DEVELOPMENT

This presentation focuses on the development of a Global Citizenship Education (GCE) program for Japanese EFL university learners. EFL or English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses with a GCE focus can encourage learners to examine global and current issues and develop critical thinking skills. However, research indicates that such programs must be based on a clear definition of global citizenship and explicit detail related to effective pedagogy and learner goals. In addition, while the position of the presenters is that critical thinking skills can be developed over time with appropriate scaffolding and support, a sufficient level of knowledge is a prerequisite for students being able to demonstrate higher order thinking skills. The presenters will share their experiences related to the development of an EAP program for EFL learners with a significant GCE focus and describe how the curriculum aligns with recommendations for GCE programs, develops students' understanding of the concept of global citizenship, and provides an appropriate level of depth of knowledge on relevant topics for the students to engage in discussions. The presenters will provide feasible recommendations for teachers who wish to implement similar approaches in English medium, content-focused, academic English courses.

Richmond Stroupe is the current Chair of the International Language Education: TESOL Graduate Program at Soka University in Tokyo, Japan. He has worked with university and professional language-learners from Asia since 1989, and his academic interests include curriculum development, teacher training and professional development, and enhancing learners' critical thinking skills.

Izumi Kanzaka is an Associate Professor of the World Language Center and Coordinator of the Global Citizenship Program of Soka University, Tokyo. Her research interests include methodologies of academic English, learner autonomy, and Global Citizenship Education.