Code-Switching in the Second Language Classroom: A Narrative Study of a Saudi English Language Teacher’s Experience

Abstract

This narrative study explores the use of code-switching in the second-language classroom from the perspective of a Saudi English language instructor. The aim was to explore how the instructor experienced code-switching as a student and used it in her teaching. The main research question guiding the study was: How does a Saudi English language teacher perceive and utilize code-switching in her teaching practice, and how does this relate to her experiences as a language learner? The study holds significance in contributing to the ongoing discourse on code-switching in second-language classrooms, providing a nuanced understanding from the perspective of an individual who has experienced it as both a learner and a teacher. Examining code-switching from the viewpoint of a Saudi English instructor can offer valuable insights into teaching practices, student engagement, cognitive benefits, and sociolinguistic dynamics within the Saudi educational context, where Arabic is the dominant language and English is increasingly important. The study utilized a narrative inquiry approach involving a series of interviews. However, excessive reliance on code-switching may hinder language acquisition, and learners should gradually reduce their dependence on it as their proficiency improves. The study provided valuable insights into the lived experiences of second language learners and teachers, underscoring the need for further research using this methodology in the field of second language acquisition.