A1 Journal article (refereed)
Poetry, ideology and heteroglossic realities in language textbooks (2024)
Ali Shah, W., Umrani, S., & Lashari, A. (2024). Poetry, ideology and heteroglossic realities in language textbooks. Language, Culture and Curriculum, Early online. https://doi.org/10.1080/07908318.2024.2342899
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Ali Shah, Waqar; Umrani, Sumera; Lashari, Asaduallah
Journal or series: Language, Culture and Curriculum
ISSN: 0790-8318
eISSN: 1747-7573
Publication year: 2024
Publication date: 19/04/2024
Volume: Early online
Publisher: Routledge
Publication country: United Kingdom
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/07908318.2024.2342899
Publication open access: Openly available
Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/94427
Abstract
Using literature, more specifically poetry in English as F/L2 has grown over time. However, scholars disagree as to whether it makes any difference to language learning or what functions it serves. The purpose of this study is to examine what discourses poetry embodies, what identities it shapes, and whether it can confront dominant ideologies in English language textbooks in Pakistan. Based on Fairclough’s dialectical-relational approach and Bakhtin’s ideas on dialogism and heteroglossia, we analysed 12 Pakistani English language textbooks. Findings suggest poetry texts embody a variety of ideological themes, including linguistic sexism, nationalistic sentiments, and religious and spiritual ethos. These discourses tend to shape learners’ identities. In addition, we also found references to poems that offer learners alternative perspectives and ways of being. In certain poems, for instance, curiosity, questioning, struggle, and recognising truth as a multifaceted entity are evident, allowing spaces for heteroglossia. Using these insights, teachers, curriculum developers and textbook writers will be able to better reflect on their pedagogical approaches and content embedded in textbooks to ensure justice, equality, and inclusion for students from a variety of socioeconomic, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
Keywords: ideologies; lyric poetry; language teaching; textbooks
Free keywords: poetry; language learning; ideologies; heteroglossia; textbooks
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
VIRTA submission year: 2024
Preliminary JUFO rating: 1