ABSTRACT
Curriculum development can be viewed as a human activity system that involves multiple stakeholders whose roles are interrelated but whose worldviews and expectations vary. To discuss how to accommodate these different views, the present chapter introduces a systems approach referred to as the soft systems methodology (SSM). This approach helps uncover different perceptions and manage problematic situations, such as those in language pedagogy. The chapter illustrates how the SSM approach can be used in curriculum development in ESP through a case study of a research-oriented university in Japan. The university replaced its general English curriculum with an EAP curriculum by clarifying the objectives of the curriculum among key stakeholders. As systems thinking can be applied to curriculum development at any educational institution, it is hoped that this chapter provides a roadmap to help improve ESP/EAP education in Japan and beyond.
