Developing a Textbook for Teaching German in an Academic Context

Guiding Principles and Thematic Structure of the Zeitgeist Project

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7213/1981-416X.26.088.AO05EN

Keywords:

German teaching, Textbook development, Critical-local approach

Abstract

This article presents the guiding principles and thematic frameworks of the Zeitgeist research project, which aims to develop a textbook for teaching German in the Brazilian academic context. Addressing the gaps identified in critiques of global teaching materials (Bohunovsky, 2008; Uphoff, 2008; Arantes, 2018; Autor), this project seeks to offer an alternative approach that considers the experiences, needs, and local realities of Brazilian language students and future German language professionals. Based on the guiding principles of content orientation, a focus on autonomy, and a critical-reflective and decolonial perspective, the project proposes a material that promotes authentic, participatory German teaching aligned with local needs. In addition to providing an analysis of the challenges posed by using global materials, the article introduces practical examples illustrating the didactic approaches adopted in the textbook, highlighting the importance of critical and contextualized teaching for German teachers and learners in Brazil.

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Author Biography

Marceli Aquino, Universidade de São Paulo (USP)

Docente da área de língua e literatura da Universidade de São Paulo. 

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Published

2026-03-26

How to Cite

Aquino, M. (2026). Developing a Textbook for Teaching German in an Academic Context: Guiding Principles and Thematic Structure of the Zeitgeist Project. Revista Diálogo Educacional, 26(88), p. 614–625. https://doi.org/10.7213/1981-416X.26.088.AO05EN