Raising pre-service English language teachers’ awareness of sustainable development goals through literary texts

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the outcome of an online project to inform preservice English language teachers regarding the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research method was used to understand participants’ overall knowledge. In total, 30 preservice teachers were selected from a larger pool after considering their grade point averages, sex, university affiliations and geographical backgrounds to ensure a balanced distribution and diversity. Qualitative data were collected through written productions, video recordings and a postproject survey.

Findings

Findings revealed that preservice teachers deepened their understanding of SDGs and adopted a positive attitude toward SDGs while increasing their pedagogical awareness and knowledge of teaching English in response to SDGs. They also regarded literary texts as a valuable resource for teaching SDGs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that literary works are valuable for educating preservice teachers on integrating SDGs. A detailed overview of the project and its outcomes can guide practitioners and teacher educators in integrating SDGs into their education programs and English language teaching.

Citation

Arikan, A. and Zorba, M.G. (2024), "Raising pre-service English language teachers’ awareness of sustainable development goals through literary texts", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 25 No. 8, pp. 1681-1695. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-06-2023-0256