Languages for Specific Purposes Curriculum Creation and Implementation in Service to the U.S. Community

Abstract

Community service learning (CSL) is a type of experiential learning that blends specific course content with real‐world applications and ties them together through structured reflection. It is an ideal pedagogy for 21st‐century language for specific purposes (LSP) programs. This article frames that argument around sociocultural theory, moves to a discussion of existing models, materials, and research, and describes the relevance of CSL and LSP to the contexts of higher education, communities beyond campus, and professional workplaces. Challenges to the implementation of CSL and LSP programs include resistance to interdisciplinary work, increasing dependence on income‐generating models, and historical lack of campus–community engagement. The article concludes with a description of current needs and priorities, such as the development of models and standards for CSL and LSP, as well as an agenda for advancing the disciplines within institutions of higher education.