I recently read Farhana Shahzad’s article titled ‘The Hidden Curriculum in ELT’ published on your pages on September 25. While the writer’s perspective on the potential cultural biases in English Language Teaching (ELT) textbooks is thought-provoking, the article overlooks several important aspects of language acquisition in a globalised world.
Firstly, learning a language is not merely about grammar and vocabulary; it is about understanding the culture, history and context in which the language developed. Exposure to native English-speaking cultures in textbooks is not necessarily an attempt to sideline a learner’s native culture but rather a natural extension of learning any language.
It is crucial to understand the nuances of English in its cultural context for learners to fully grasp how the language operates in real-world scenarios, be it in literature, business or communication. Moreover, English is a global language that serves as a bridge across various cultures. It is not owned exclusively by native speakers but belongs to everyone who uses it, including non-native speakers. By focusing on international contexts, ELT textbooks prepare students to interact in a globalised world where English is the medium of communication across diverse cultures, not just a select few.
The writer’s concern about the erosion of cultural identity is valid, but rather than viewing the introduction of foreign cultures as a threat, it should be seen as an opportunity for students to learn how to explore different cultural perspectives. Effective education should focus on balancing the teaching of language skills with respect for local culture rather than suggesting that one must come at the cost of the other.
Instead of being critical of the “hidden curriculum”, we should encourage the development of textbooks that incorporate both global perspectives and local contexts, empowering students to embrace both their cultural heritage and the advantages of being fluent in a global language.
Nazia Kashif Qadri
Lecturer at Bahria College, Karach
