Language Conflict, Attitude and Language Choice in a Bilingual Academic Environment

Abstract

This paper set out to examine the language attitude and factors that determine the language choice of students of the Special Bilingual Classes of the English Department of Government Bilingual High School (G.B.H.S) Bayelle Nkwen Bamenda. This was done by examining the factors, which determine the Francophone students’ rising interest in their choice of studying English. Students of the Special Bilingual Classes were chosen to be the focus of this research based on their bilingual learning setting. The data was collected through questionnaires and interviews. Questionnaire and interview guide were designed to capture the Francophone students’ attitude and their choice of studying English, when they already have French that they can use in all circumstances. The results revealed that the Francophone students of the Special Bilingual Classes of the English Department hold a positive attitude toward English. Both teachers and students of the Special Bilingual Classes of the English Department of G.B.H.S Bayelle did indicate some kind of shift from French to English that reflects the latter’s position as a global lingua franca, associated with western style of life, prosperity and economic development, scholarship, carrier opportunity, science and technology, to name just a few. The results also showed preponderant influence or authority over students from English speaking background which prevents them from having a sound education.