Journal of Language Development and Linguistics
Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): February 2026

Comparative Efficacy of English-Only Policies and Multilingual Scaffolding: A Meta-Synthesis of Language Proficiency Outcomes

Resheil Sellote (Cebu Technological University - Main Campus)
Caren Mae Duterte (Cebu Technological University - Main Campus)
Abegail Dante (Cebu Technological University - Main Campus)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Jun 2026

Abstract

This qualitative meta-synthesis aims to examine the comparative impact of English-Only Policy (EOP) and multilingual scaffolding on student language proficiency. The core concepts investigated include fluency, comprehension, learner confidence, and classroom engagement. Utilizing a document analysis framework and thematic coding, the methodology synthesizes data from peer-reviewed ESL and EFL studies published between 2015 and 2025. Results reveal that EOP significantly improves oral fluency and structural accuracy but poses affective challenges for low-proficiency learners. Conversely, multilingual scaffolding effectively facilitates conceptual understanding and engagement but may not resolve foundational language deficits. The study concludes that both approaches are complementary, advocating for a context-responsive, hybrid instructional model that integrates both strategies to foster optimal and sustainable language acquisition outcomes.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jldl

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Journal of Language Development and Linguistics (JLDL) is a quarterly, double-blind peer reviewed journal which publishes original research papers in the field of language development and Linguistics. JLDL publishes articles related to the nature of language acquisition and those which set bridges ...