ESL Learners’ Perceptions of Code-Switching in the English Language Classroom

Abstract

Code-switching refers to the change that takes place when a speaker switches from one language to another. Many factors contribute to the occurrence of code-switching, especially in an ESL classroom. In the context of global transitions, code-switching is becoming significant in an ESL classroom. This paper highlights the learners’ perceptions of the use of code-switching and its functions in speaking skills in the English classroom. A quantitative method study using a questionnaires as instruments was conducted among 80 learners and aimed at investigating their perceptions of the use of code-switching and its functions for ESL learners in the English classroom. From the survey, it was found that 68.8% agreed that code-switching helps them to understand English better. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the learners have positive perceptions of code-switching in the English classroom. Additionally, the study presents other implications and future work in a multilingual classroom.