• Antonius Ali Wutun

  Author

• Burhanuddin Arafah

  Author

• Abdul Hakim Yassi

  Author

Integrating local culture in English Language Teaching (ELT) poses a challenge because of the
huge diversity of learners’ contexts. Some Studies on local culture in ELT really have been
carried out, however the learners’ perspectives is rarely researched. The current research study
therefore explored learners’ perspectives on culture integration in English program at a
Pharmacology Institute in Indonesia. The research study used qualitative method. The interview
data revealed that most students find it easier to speak English using the local cultural input.
Since the learners brought their own knowledge and experience of their culture, the local culture
reduced cognitive loads, enabled them to personalize learning. Furthermore, the integration of
local culture provided fun and positive learning atmosphere. The learners therefore gained great
confidence in using local terms from their native language to express meanings in English. The
local knowledge also got its validity to be used in creating meanings in English language use.

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