Email this article Exploring Local and Global Cultures in English Teaching Materials: A Literature Review
Shofia Fithri MahmudahAbstract
This literature review examines the integration of local and global cultures in English Language Teaching (ELT) materials by synthesizing recent research from 2020 to 2025. The study analyzes how cultural content shapes learners' linguistic competence and intercultural awareness. Through systematic review of 25 peer-reviewed articles from diverse geographical contexts, this study identifies key themes including cultural representation patterns, material adaptation strategies, and the development of intercultural communicative competence. Findings reveal that balanced integration of both local and global cultural elements significantly enhances learner engagement, contextual relevance, and communicative effectiveness. However, persistent challenges remain in achieving appropriate cultural balance and providing adequate teacher training for culturally responsive pedagogy. This review contributes to ongoing discourse on culturally responsive ELT by offering evidence-based insights for material developers, educators, and curriculum designers seeking to create more inclusive and effective language learning environments that prepare learners for meaningful intercultural communication in today's globalized world.
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