The Importance of Culture in Second and Foreign Language Learning
Abstract: English has been
designated as a source of intercultural communication among the people from
diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. A range of linguistic and cultural
theories contribute meaningful insights on the development of competence in
intercultural communication. The speculations suggest the use of communicative
strategies focusing on the development of learners’ efficiency in communicating
language through cultural context. However, the teaching of culture in
communication has not been paid due importance in a number of academic and
language settings of Pakistan and Iran. This assignment study indicates
problems in view of teaching English as a medium of instruction in public
sector colleges of interior Sindh, Pakistan and prescribed textbooks in Iranian
schools. It also aims to identify drawbacks and shortcoming in prescribed textbooks
for intermediate students at college level and schools. Therefore, the
assignment study recommends integration of cultural awareness into a language
teaching programme for an overall achievement of competence in intercultural
communication.
Keywords: cultural awareness,
intercultural communication, communicative competence, cross-cultural
interaction, teaching pedagogy
Author: Sheeraz Ali
Kode Jurnal: jppendidikangg150156
