A Learning Curriculum: Toward Student-Driven Pedagogy in the Context of Adult English for Academic Purposes, English for Specific Purposes, and Workplace English Programs

This article introduces the concept of a learning curriculum that places adult English as a second language (ESL) students' needs in the center and encourages the engagement of ESL learners in curriculum design. The study is based on contemporary research in the field of adult ESL program planning. It summarizes key components of a learning curriculum: holistic needs assessment conducted by and with ESL learners, content-based curriculum, and culture-based education for life and for rights-a curriculum that pushes boundaries and inspires ESL educators to acquire challenging new roles. In her conclusion, the author offers some practical advice and ideas about the implementation of a learning curriculum in adult ESL settings.