The Use of Code-Switching by Secondary School Students’ in English Speaking Class

Saidah Mardliyah (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya)
Nailul Authar (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya)
Mujad Didien Afandi (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya)

International Journal of English Education and Linguistics (IJoEEL)
Vol 8, No 1 (2026)

This study aims to investigate the use of code-switching, a linguistic phenomenon in which a person switches languages or language varieties alternately in a conversation or interaction among secondary school students in Sidoarjo. This study used a qualitative approach, utilising interviews to identify the affecting factors behind students' code-switching and explore students' perceptions of the function of code-switching in the English classroom. The findings show that code-switching significantly enhances students' speaking instruction in a rural, bilingual environment by recognising code-switching as a learning tool and a reflection of students' needs. In addition, students reported positive experiences, showing increased motivation and engagement. This research highlights students' language gaps to transform into a fun interaction tool in classroom learning.