IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

Teaching English or Teaching the West? Multimodal Cultural Imperialism in Big Show Level 5 Textbooks Used in Indonesian Islamic Montessori Schools

Muhammad Arif (Unknown)
Qurrata’ain (Unknown)
Greis Evalinda (Unknown)
Ida Nyoman Tri Darma Putra (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 May 2026

Abstract

This study extends Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) beyond traditional textual examination to investigate multimodal representations of culture in "Big Show Teacher’s Guide Level 5" a 135-page English as a Foreign Language (EFL) textbook guidance for teachers, widely used in Indonesian educational contexts, particularly Islamic Montessori elementary schools. Employing an expanded analytical framework incorporating five dimensions which are visual-spatial representation, digital multimodality, embodied cultural practices, temporal-contextual positioning, and material-environmental factors. The study reveals systematic patterns of cultural imperialism operating through multiple semiotic modes simultaneously. Analysis of all twelve units demonstrates that while the textbook superficially incorporates cultural variety, it fundamentally privileges Western cultural norms, consumer values, and secular worldviews that conflict with Indonesian communitarian values, Islamic principles, and indigenous knowledge systems. The study documents how 4th of July celebrations, London landmarks, and Western leisure activities are positioned as universal references while Indonesian Independence Day, traditional markets, indigenous games, and local wildlife remain entirely absent. Material requirements including extensive technology access create class-based educational exclusion, while rigid temporal structures contradict Islamic prayer schedules and traditional learning rhythms. These findings demonstrate that genuine educational equity requires comprehensive multimodal redesign across all five dimensions, not superficial textual modifications.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...