Literature as a Tool in the Communicative Language Syllabus for Technical and Management Students

As per the prevalent perception, there is a distinct line of demarcation between language and literature. Some teachers consider language as a separate subject, which they believe has little or no bearing on the study of literature. They believe that teaching a language explicitly can make learners capable of using the language for communication. Accordingly, the syllabus for Communicative English for technical and management students under different universities is designed to develop the language skills of learners. Disappointingly, the gap between knowledge and the practical use of that knowledge while communicating has widened. This huge void in the language competency of students is the result of a lack of interest in literature and the non-inclusion of literature in the curriculum. This paper discusses and analyses Communicative English coursebooks on the four language skills for technical and management students. It aims to investigate the extent and significance of literature discourse in the acquisition of a foreign language as the second language. It also suggests for a change in the syllabus to create space for literature and apt pedagogy for literature-centred activities along with other communication activities in the classroom for learners.