Current Trends of Using ELT Materials in the Classrooms of Bangladeshi Universities

The 21st century has significantly influenced English language education worldwide. With rapid technological advancements, the use of English Language Teaching (ELT) materials in Global South classrooms has evolved. Careful selection of these materials is crucial, particularly in contexts where English is not a native or daily communication language. In Bangladesh, English functions as both an academic and global communication tool, making ELT materials central to preparing higher education students for academic and professional success. This chapter examines the types of ELT materials used in Bangladeshi universities for teaching English for Academic Purposes (EAP). It also provides an overview of the teaching-learning culture of the country. Seven teachers from public and private universities responded to open-ended questions, highlighting current practices in material use. Additionally, document analysis of course syllabi was conducted to identify the reading materials suggested for basic English or foundational English courses. Findings reveal that most ELT materials in use are outdated and heavily Western-oriented. Although teachers attempt to adapt them, they encounter challenges such as insufficient training, limited time, scarce funding, and lack of institutional support. These issues underscore the urgent need for professional development and contextually relevant ELT materials aligned with both local and global demands.