The Role Of Text Classification In Enhancing EFL Students’ Cultural Awareness

Abstract

This study explores the role of text classification in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction. As global communication demands more than syntactic accuracy, the cultivation of cultural awareness is crucial in language education. Text classification, organized around culturally salient themes, provides a structured avenue for learners to explore cultural identities, values, and worldviews. This approach fosters intercultural communicative competence and allows educators to curate and present culturally diverse materials. The study was conducted at the College of Arts, University of Tikrit, with 72 students selected through stratified random sampling. The experimental group received instruction incorporating text classification tasks to highlight cultural elements embedded in English texts, while the control group followed a traditional curriculum without this intervention. Data was collected through pre- and post-intervention assessments, including cultural awareness questionnaires, text analysis tasks, and student reflections. The findings showed a statistically significant improvement in the experimental group's ability to identify, interpret, and critically engage with culturally embedded content. These results highlight the pedagogical value of integrating text classification into EFL instruction for language development and promoting intercultural competence.