Inclusion of Target Language Culture in EFL Classrooms in Pakistan: Learners’ Perspective

Abstract

This research explores the advanced English language learners’ attitude towards the inclusion of different aspects of target language culture in Pakistan. This study also aims to find out if there are any differences in the attitude of the learners from urban areas and those from rural communities. The data was collected from two Pakistani universities. A questionnaire was used pertaining to different aspects of culture and if the respondents were annoyed when exposed to those aspects of culture. The data was analysed with SPSS and the extent of learners’ agreement and disagreement with the anchor statements was measured. The results indicate that the learners from both the target communities have positive attitude towards the teaching of all aspects of target language culture. However, the ratio of positive attitude is higher in learners form urban industrial community. Moreover, the learners from both the communities were not open to the teaching of some concepts such as homosexuality and funeral customs in the target language community. This indicates that all the aspects of target culture may not be included in ELT syllabus and the sentiments and customs of the local community must be taken into account while designing the content of ELT material.

Key words:Attitudes;learners’ perceptions;Target culture; Muslim reaction; culturally sensitive ELT material