A POSSIBLE SOLUTION FOR THE TEACHING OF LITERATURE IN ENGLISH IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Literature in English in Nigeria is vital as it develops and expands language awareness and creates socio-cultural awareness. Despite the enormous benefits students and readers gain from literature education, it has some issues that thwart its effective teaching and learning. These issues include the negative attitude of students towards literature in English, lack of engaging instructional strategies, lack of qualified and experienced teachers to teach literature, inappropriate or perceived irrelevant texts, too many books to study and insufficient learning materials. Others are inadequate funding, and above all, the use of a traditional approach to the teaching of literature which does not encourage interaction. The use of technology in an authentic manner is a potential strategy that could enhance and stimulate learning at any time. It may likely change the negative attitude of students toward literature in English. Hence, using devices such as a mobile phone could perhaps address contemporary pedagogical issues and would support, promote, augment and enhance interactive learning. Mobile technology is unique and can provide relevant and accessible learning resources to change learning focus. Appropriate literature materials or resources could easily be accessed online to inspire and motivate students to learn anytime and anywhere (Hao, Lee, Chen & Sim, 2018). Mobile or smartphone applications such as SMS, Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, internet access, mp3/mp4 player as well as audio and video recording are motivating apps. These applications may serve as a library for a classroom that could engage students, encourage, enhance, as well as promote learning.