Abstract:

This paper presents the pedagogical benefits of including both Indigenous and diasporic African literature in the teaching of Portuguese as a foreign language in higher education. The value of multicultural inclusion of less commonly studied literature at the intermediate and advanced language learning levels is two-fold – to elevate classes to a more open-minded learning experience and to spark continuous engagement and interest in learning throughout the entire academic year. Students at this level report feeling a deceleration of their language acquisition as they reach a natural learning plateau mid-year. This is common following the initial intensive learning period, when students feel they are learning at a faster pace, as they are being introduced to new and creative perspective and content. In order to overcome the challenges presented by these plateaus, course programs could incorporate into the curriculum a variety of options ranging from innovative technological approaches to the multicultural inclusion of world literature. While classic literature offers invaluable content in language learning, the study of overlooked literature provides perspectives that are both unique and common, and are an integral part of the world we live in. The increased number of publications by Indigenous peoples and African authors are illustrative of the growing interest and demand, as people seek to grow their understanding of global history and culture. This literature is a valuable tool for introducing students to diversity through history and culture, and increasing their capacity to reflect. The inclusion of Indigenous and diasporic African literature in the teaching of Portuguese would enhance learning by generating curiosity and sustaining the learning momentum in the classroom throughout the year. This would create the perfect environment for maximizing language learning and cultural competency.

Keywords:

Languages, culture, multicultural, inclusion, Indigenous, diasporic, African, pedagogy, literature.