cultural disparate english textbooks: an analysis of bangladesh elt

This study investigates locally produced english language teaching (elt) textbooks for higher secondary education in bangladesh, focusing on the embedded cultural aspects. the research employs content analysis to quantify cultural representation occurrences, revealing a prevalence of western cultures in the books, while asian and african cultures are notably underrepresented. the findings expose a cultural bias that portrays women primarily in domestic roles, perceiving their work as mundane. english women, on the other hand, are depicted more gracefully with freedom and peace, despite engaging in conventional activities. despite some token gestures, such as showcasing women’s participation in sports, the study underscores the need for gender-equitable textbooks to challenge learners’ conceptual positions and raise awareness of women's rights. the inclusion of international cultures may contribute to a more balanced representation, fostering the development of bangladeshi learners as global speakers.