Ethnic diversity and Gender bias in EFL textbooks

This study was an attempt to explore the significance of textbook selection for EFL students with regard to the image of sex/gender and the portrayal of different ethnic groups in the targeted culture. Researches on the portrayal of women in EFL textbooks (Ansary and Babii 2003; Hartman and Judd 1978) have shown that the stereotypical role of women as mothers and homemakers is still being perpetuated in many current language textbooks. Moreover, the ethnic make-up of many of the cultures represented in these textbooks is not correctly displayed. A current English language textbook used throughout Iran, Esfahan, Expressway A, was considered for (a) gender bias - the depiction of women in stereotypical roles, and (b) ethnic group portrayal - the visibility and depiction of ethnic groups in the text. The results showed that Expressway A, while better than many earlier EFL texts, still represents women in roles that no longer accurately depict their role in society. The text also gives a much sanitized view of the ethnic make-up of the societies and, in one case, shows a large degree of cultural insensitivity. It is suggested that more elaborated notes on the sociolinguistic usage of certain expressions, on the role of women in society, and on the cultural make-up of the targeted societies are needed if this textbook is to be effectively used by a nonnative teacher of English.

Keywords:

ethnic diversity , gender bias , EFL textbook , cultural insensitivity , society