In multilingual classrooms, effective communication can be challenging. One solution educators are increasingly turning to is code-switching, a strategy that bridges language gaps and supports diverse learners.
What is Code-Switching?
Code-switching is a linguistic phenomenon where people switch between two or more languages, dialects, or forms of speech during a conversation, sometimes even in the same sentence or phrase. It happens in many situations, from casual talks to formal presentations and even in the classroom. In education, it can be especially helpful because both teachers and learners can use their different language skills to improve understanding, make connections, and create a more inclusive learning environment.
The Role of Code-Switching in Education?
The code-switching implementation in the classroom is essential since it allows educators and learners to have meaningful communication, and that information is well communicated. It naturally occurs between bilingual educators and learners, helping improve learners’ vocabulary. When teachers guide code-switching appropriately, it can lead to beneficial outcomes.
A limited vocabulary can hinder both teachers and learners from communicating effectively in the classroom. This can hinder teacher-learner communication and result in a teacher-centred approach as opposed to a learner-centred one. For instance, an isiXhosa First Additional Language (FAL) learner, whose mother tongue is English, who hardly speaks IsiXhosa at home, may find it challenging to interact with teachers in class due to their inadequate IsiXhosa abilities. It is therefore important for language teachers to embrace code-switching in their classrooms.
A Real-Life Classroom Example
While teaching isiXhosa as a First Additional Language to Grade 12 learners at a secondary school, I had an experience that showed me how helpful code-switching can be. During a lesson about the importance of Xhosa proverbs, I introduced the saying “Umntu ngumntu ngabantu,” which means “A person is a person because of other people.” When I asked the class to explain what it meant, many learners, especially those who didn’t speak isiXhosa at home, had trouble understanding it. Realizing this, I switched to English and explained the proverb’s literal meaning, then added some cultural context to make it clearer. This change helped the learners engage more with the lesson and led to better discussions. By using both languages, I was able to connect with learners from different language backgrounds, creating a more inclusive and supportive classroom.
Benefits of Code-Switching for Learners
When teachers use code-switching in the classroom, it can help learners feel more confident and do better. Code-switching makes learners feel comfortable and understood, which encourages them to join in discussions and activities. As a result, they become more engaged and motivated, feeling safe to ask questions or try new things. Code-switching also helps learners understand test questions and assignments better when they can use their first language. By including code-switching in their teaching, teachers can create a supportive and friendly learning environment that helps learners to succeed.
Code-switching in the classroom is a powerful strategy to assist learners in communicating better. By switching between languages, the teacher can connect with learners from diverse backgrounds and make the learning environment more welcoming. In addressing the challenges of linguistically diverse schools, code-switching plays a crucial role in helping learners achieve greater success, build strong relationships, and reach their full potential.
Author:
Lwandile Ncam
