Kannywood Film as a Tool for Teaching Hausa Language and Culture

Abstract

This paper explores the pedagogical practice of utilizing Kannywood films to teach Hausa language and culture to American college students. It argues that films, as dynamic educational resources, effectively animate cultural contexts and enhance intercultural competence among learners. With their diverse themes and complex characters, films vividly capture not only the general attributes of Hausa society but also its nuanced intricacies. By humanizing the Hausa-speaking world, this approach aims to deepen students' cultural awareness and linguistic proficiency. Nevertheless, films alone are insufficient as standalone instructional materials. Thus, this article discusses the educator’s rationale behind course design and instructional methods, emphasizing how these films have reshaped students’ perceptions. The instructional approach outlined involves, firstly, recognizing foundational cultural norms and their historical origins within Hausa society; secondly, establishing a coherent cultural framework and thematic context; and thirdly, using films strategically to illustrate contemporary social issues and behavioral patterns. The selected films referenced herein serve merely as representative examples, rather than exhaustive illustrations, of how cinematic resources can effectively humanize and enrich understanding of a diverse and multifaceted culture.