Cross-Cultural Understanding in Language Classrooms: The Embedding of Culture in Indonesian English Textbooks

Abstract

Textbook is an important element in learning language because they provide framework for the construction of values and beliefs. Given that textbooks are built upon certain cultural values and beliefs, it is not possible to teach language without teaching the culture. Several findings have found that English textbooks are written based on certain culture. Without careful examination and appropriate use of the textbooks, students might feel confused and end up adopting and using the language in the wrong context. Hence, this paper is intended to explain the reasons why English teachers should develop a broad cross-cultural understanding and how Indonesian English textbooks have embedded culture in their texts and images. To answer these purposes, the researcher uses qualitative descriptive method. Based on the analysis of the data, it is found that English teachers need the knowledge of different cultures, since it affects the lesson planning, teacher-student communication, and teacher-parent interaction, which are the major factors of students’ success in learning. Moreover, it is found that Indonesian English textbook provided by the government mostly represents Indonesian culture. In conclusion, English teachers in Indonesia have to develop cross-cultural understanding because it has to be taken into consideration whenever they plan a lesson and interact with the students and parents. Furthermore, since Indonesian English textbook provided by the government still adopts local and national culture, teachers have to add more exposure to different cultures to the students, so they will not be surprised when they talk with English users from different countries.