Examining Teacher and Student Beliefs in Poetry Education: A Systematic Review within TESL Contexts

Abstract

This systematic review investigates the intersection of teacher and student beliefs in poetry education within TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) programs. It synthesizes studies examining how these beliefs influence pedagogical practices, student engagement, and overall learning outcomes in poetry instruction. Utilizing the PRISMA methodology, the review identifies and analyzes 32 peer-reviewed articles published between 1982 and 2024. Findings indicate that teachers' beliefs about poetry significantly shape instructional approaches, often impacting students' attitudes toward the genre. Teachers who view poetry as an essential tool for fostering creativity and cultural understanding tend to implement it more actively in their curricula, enhancing student engagement. Conversely, students often perceive poetry as challenging due to its linguistic complexity, leading to anxiety and disengagement. The review also highlights discrepancies between teacher expectations and student experiences, particularly in assessment-driven environments where poetry is seen as secondary to core language skills. The study concludes that a more collaborative approach to poetry education—integrating student perspectives—can foster more positive attitudes and better align teaching practices with student needs. This research contributes to the broader discourse on literature education in TESL, offering insights into how poetry can be effectively integrated into language instruction to improve both educational outcomes and cultural literacy.