Humanities and Language
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): Humanities & Language: International Journal of Linguistics, Humanities, and Ed

Teachers’ attitudes and students’ language preferences on code-switching in English classrooms: A mixed-method study at Instituto São João de Brito, Timor-Leste

Pires, Sidonio Antonio (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the role of code-switching in English language teaching at Instituto São João de Brito, Timor-Leste, a multilingual setting where English is taught as a foreign language. Building on existing research highlighting the importance of code-switching in facilitating teaching and learning, this study explores teachers’ attitudes and students’ language preferences in classes where code-switching is employed. A mixed-method approach was adopted, involving four teachers and fifty students who participated in questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that teachers recognise the value of code-switching in enhancing student understanding, participation, and teaching methods. Quantitative results show that 60% of students are flexible with code-switching, while 90% prefer increased use of English in class. The study’s findings contribute to understanding how code-switching can effectively be utilised in English language teaching practices in multilingual settings, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that promotes linguistic flexibility and English language proficiency. The implications of this study can inform teaching practices and policies in similar multilingual contexts, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of English language instruction.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

humaniola

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

Humanities and Language : International Journal of Linguistics, Humanities, and Education (abbreviated as HUMANIOLA) is an academic, open access, peer-reviewed journal that was established and first published in 2023 by Abdul Media Literasi. It primarily focuses on the study of language, humanities, ...