Enhancing EFL Learning: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of the "General English" Textbook’s Pedagogical Effectiveness and Cultural Relevance at Arak University

This study sought to assess the "General English" textbook, authored by Manouchehr Jafari Gohar, published by Payame Noor University press, and used as a reading resource and general English coursebook at Arak University in 2025 by employing a synthesized 40-item checklist adapted from the evaluation frameworks of Abdel Wahab (2013), Ansary and Babaii (2002), Rahimy (2007), and Tok (2010), integrated to assess general appearance, objectives, content, activities, and language skills, complemented by semi-structured teacher interviews for further evaluation. This book was used in some classes at Arak University as a reading book and general course text. To evaluate the "General English" textbook, a purposive sampling method was employed to select 84 first-semester undergraduate students (48 males, 36 females) from four classes at Arak University, representing English-Persian Translation , Civil Engineering, Practical Chemistry, and Mechanics , along with four teachers responsible for teaching the textbook in these classes, with data collected using a 40-item checklist for students and semi-structured interviews with teachers. The students’ checklist consisted of forty items, and the teachers’ interview contained seven questions. After data analysis, it was shown that the teachers and students believed that the cover and appearance of the book are attractive. In addition, teachers reported that mandatory topics and practical words are addressed in the book, and the books are interesting and accessible for students. In addition, the outcomes reported that the content of the book is up-to-date and practical, and the objectives are clearly identified. It was determined that although the textbook was not very flawed. It indicated that the textbook had met students’ needs, and it could be a good book in the hands of a good teacher. Based on these considerations, researchers should consider that the textbook could be recommended in teaching and learning situations, and it could be an effective textbook in the hands of teachers who can adapt this book to the situation and culture in teaching.