Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Volume 16. Number 3, September 2025 Pp.188-210

Global Trends in Language for Specific Purposes Curriculum Development: A Systematic Review

Faculty of Education, The National University of Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia

Corresponding Author: p121100@siswa.ukm.edu.my

Faculty of Education, The National University of Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia

Abstract:

This systematic review investigates how language curriculum design is evolving to address the increasing need for domain‑specific communication skills in education and professional practice. It examines the question of how educational systems worldwide adapt curriculum frameworks to meet contextual and disciplinary requirements while maintaining linguistic accuracy and pedagogical quality. The study also highlights the significance of this shift in enhancing equity, relevance, and global competitiveness in language for specific purposes education. Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses protocol, 24 peer‑reviewed articles published between 2021 and 2025 were systematically retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and the Education Resources Information Center databases. Thematic synthesis of the selected studies identified three major trends: the contextual localisation of curriculum models and frameworks, the adoption of learner‑centred teaching strategies to strengthen skill transfer, and the integration of technology and contextual awareness in curriculum delivery. These findings point to a global movement toward flexible and interdisciplinary approaches in language curriculum development. The review concludes with recommendations for policymakers and educators to align teacher preparation and technological infrastructure with international benchmarks while addressing local learning priorities

Cite as:

Sapawi, M.S.M., & Yusoff, N. M.R.N. (2025). Global Trends in Language for Specific Purposes Curriculum Development: A Systematic Review. Arab World English Journal, 16(3): 188-210

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Mior Syazril Mohamed Sapawi is a PhD candidate in Curriculum Development at The National University of Malaysia. His research focuses on Arabic Language Curriculum for Specific Purposes (ASP) in science secondary schools. He has worked in curriculum development roles at Malaysia’s Ministry of Education.  Email:  miorsyazril@gmail.com
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4711-0636

 Nik Mohd Rahimi Nik Yusoff is a Professor of Arabic Language Education at The National University of Malaysia. His scholarship covers Arabic pedagogy, curriculum design and policy; he has authored widely and led national textbook and module projects. Current interests include technology-enhanced Arabic teaching. Email: nikmrahimi@gmail.com
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0605-4010