Investigating the Role of Translation in Teaching Culture to Foreign Language Learners at Institutions of Higher Education in Algeria

Abstract

The incorporation of cultural elements into the language education curriculum, particularly within the context of second language acquisition, is widely acknowledged as an essential and foundational component that significantly enhances the overall effectiveness and success of the educational process. This inclusive approach not only fosters linguistic proficiency but also promotes cross-cultural understanding. It provides students with a comprehensive and immersive learning experience, cultivating a deep appreciation for diverse cultures while refining their language skills. It is crucial to recognize and understand the deep connection between culture and language, as they are closely intertwined and mutually dependent. The interconnected relationship between culture and language suggests that they should be considered together rather than separately in human communication and expression. In order to gain a deep understanding of a foreign language, learners should engage with the cultural context that shapes it. This includes exploring the traditions, beliefs, and customs that influence the language of a community. Immersing oneself in the cultural background not only enhances comprehension but also facilitates the attainment of fluency and proficiency in the language being learned. Therefore, educators in the field of language instruction are responsible for integrating cultural aspects into their teaching methods, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive language learning experience that encompasses both linguistic and cultural aspects. Incorporating cultural insights and practices into language teaching enables instructors to facilitate a more comprehensive and effective learning process, allowing learners to engage with the language in a meaningful and authentic manner. It is widely accepted that the integration of cultural elements not only enhances the learning experience but also plays a pivotal role in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the target language, thereby enriching the linguistic proficiency of the learners. This study aims to explore the role of translation in teaching culture to foreign language learners and its impact on their intercultural communicative competence. It focuses on assessing the current state of cultural education in the context of foreign language learning and the significance of translation in conveying cultural concepts to language students. The study also seeks to investigate teachers' attitudes towards incorporating translation in foreign language classrooms at Algerian universities and the impact of these attitudes on their teaching curricula. To acquire relevant information, a structured questionnaire was shared among a total of 18 instructors who specialize in foreign languages within the academic realm of Algerian tertiary institutions, aiding in the collection of primary data that was subsequently subjected to thorough examination and interpretation through the utilisation of a research framework that combines descriptive and analytical methodologies. The findings of the study indicate that translation plays a crucial role in enhancing linguistic competence for language learners. Understanding cultural nuances is essential for language educators and students due to the interconnectedness of language and culture. Integrating cultural components into language teaching is significant as it provides learners with diverse perspectives and contexts. Additionally, translation is important in educating foreign language learners about culture, helping them deepen their understanding of their own cultural background and compare it with the culture they are studying, thus improving their intercultural skills and enhancing their ability to acknowledge and respect cultural differences.