PROJECT (Professional Journal of English Education)
Vol. 9 No. 4 (2026): VOLUME 9 NUMBER 4, JULY 2026

Exploring The Pedagogical Function and Students Perception of Code-Switching in an Indonesian EFL Classroom

Honey Ramadhani (Universitas Negeri Semarang)
Novia Trisanti (Universitas Negeri Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study explores the pedagogical functions of code-switching and students’ perceptions of its use in an Indonesian EFL classroom. Using a qualitative case study design, the research involved one English teacher and approximately 30 seventh-grade students at a public junior high school in Semarang, Indonesia. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis, then analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings demonstrated that the teacher employed code-switching to explain difficult material, give instructions, manage classroom interaction, and support students’ comprehension. Code-switching occurred most frequently during explanation and instruction stages, especially when students were confused or had trouble understanding English. Although the teacher stated that code-switching was used spontaneously rather than as a planned strategy, classroom observations revealed that code switching consistently appeared in specific teaching contexts. Students generally perceived code-switching positively because it helped them understand the material more easily, reduced anxiety, increased confidence, and encouraged classroom participation. The study suggests that code-switching serves as an effective and responsive pedagogical strategy that supports students’ comprehension and engagement, particularly for learners with low English proficiency in EFL classrooms.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

project

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Focus PROJECT (Professional Journal of English Education) is a media for diseminating the result of research about language and education in English Education. Scope PROJECT (Professional Journal of English Education) publishes the research article in language, and education in English Education. ...