JOLLT Journal of Languages and Language Teaching
Vol. 12 No. 4 (2024): October

Translanguaging and Decolonisation in South African Higher Education: Embracing Multilingual Pedagogies

Mbirimi-Hungwe, Vimbai (Unknown)
Matariro-Mutanha, Mariyeni (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
17 Oct 2024

Abstract

Translanguaging, a practice that recognises and utilizes  multilingual students’ linguistic repertoires has emerged as a crucial approach in challenging traditional language policies, particularly in the South African educational landscape.Despite its embrace, a colonial stance still persists in teaching practices. Through a critical analysis of teaching materials used in an academic literacy course, this paper explores how translanguaging is currently being used in teaching and learning. Findings reveal a tension in the sense that even though students’ language practices are acknowledged, the materials still maintain a dominant position for English. This highlights the need to move beyond a simplistic view of multilingualism towards a more holistic embrace of translanguaging.Set against this background, this research argues that translanguaging can bridge the abyssal divide created by colonialism. It emphasizes the unifying potential of translanguaging, fostering an educational landscape that celebrates South Africa's rich linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. Ultimately, the study calls upon educators to move beyond the limitations of standardized languages and fully embrace translanguaging as a transformative force for decolonization.At the end, the paper calls for further research.

Copyrights © 2024






Journal Info

Abbrev

jollt

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

OLLT is an open access journal which provides immediate, worldwide, barrier-free access to the full text of all published articles without charging readers or their institutions for access. Readers have the right to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of all ...