Develop Your English Book Cover

Published by Open Press at the University of Sussex under a CC BY NC ND licence.

The University of Sussex has announced the release of a ground-breaking open access language e-textbook entitled Develop Your English: with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This initiative is led by Sue Robbins, a Senior Lecturer in English Language in the University's Department of Language Studies.

Released on Wednesday 31 January 2024, the e-textbook is aimed at upper-intermediate and advanced level English language learners, proficiency levels B2/C1. Innovative in its approach, the textbook offers perspectives on world issues alongside opportunities for students to develop their English as an international language by centering the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

"The book is a transformative journey towards a better interconnected world, capturing the attention of learners across age groups, genders, and diverse backgrounds." – AW

What sets this e-textbook apart is its departure from conventional language learning materials. The authentic texts, podcasts, and interactive content are curated around the SDGs, ensuring relevance to an international audience, and allowing for the development of an understanding of pressing global issues.

Sue Robbins, the author, brings a unique touch to the project by incorporating original content from authors around the globe. The goal is to provide learners with a diverse and inclusive learning experience. Robbins believes that the universal scope of global topics offers a collective learning experience that transcends cultural boundaries.

In a departure from traditional publishing routes, Develop Your English is an OER, freely accessible to the public. The content has considered feedback from 16 international Sussex students, along with academic reviews, to ensure quality and relevance, and sensitivity towards the subject matter.

Each unit within the textbook includes interactive tasks to enable systematic vocabulary development, further develop reading and listening skills, and support the focus on grammatical and lexical items extracted from the text. "Develop Your English is a transformative expedition into language proficiency, global awareness, and sustainable learning." – AW

For accessibility, the resource is designed to be versatile, and can accommodate those without reliable internet access. In addition to the online interactive version, Robbins has created a parallel print version featuring text-based exercises. Learners can download the print version and corresponding audio for offline study.

Sue Robbins, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Sussex, and a Senior Fellow of AdvanceHE (SFHEA), has a rich background in language teaching and teacher training. Her decision to publish this textbook as an open-access resource reflects her commitment to accessibility, dissemination, and the principles of open educational practices.

The release of Develop Your English represents a significant contribution to open-access language education, providing learners with valuable perspectives on global issues while honing their English communication skills. "The book not only enhances language skills but also broadens one’s general knowledge and perspectives on the SDGs, alleviating the stress of learning a new language through diverse and exciting experiences." - BK

About the Author: Sue Robbins is a Senior Lecturer in English Language at the University of Sussex, UK, and Director of Continuing Professional Development in the School of Media, Arts & Humanities. Her extensive experience includes teaching general English, English for Academic Purposes, and teacher development courses for both domestic and international students.

"The textbook stands out as a departure from traditional teaching materials, offering an engaging and inspiring approach to learning English." – MC

Sign up for the online launch via Eventbrite.

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