International Journal of Language Teaching and Education
Vol. 10 No. 2 (2026): International Journal of Language Teaching and Education

Teachers’ Mother Tongue Use to Improve Indonesian Language Proficiency:: A Case Study in Jambi Elementary School

Asril, Hendra Riza (Unknown)
Sulistiyo, Urip (Unknown)
Purba, Andiopenta (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Oct 2026

Abstract

This study aims to describe how teachers use the mother tongue as a strategy to improve primary school students’ Indonesian language skills. The research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design conducted at SDN 3 Kota Jambi. Data were collected through classroom observations, interviews, and documentation. The results show that the use of the mother tongue, Jambi Malay, helps students understand Indonesian vocabulary and sentence structure more easily. Teachers used the mother tongue to explain lessons, give examples, and build closer relationships with students, making learning more effective and meaningful. These findings support Translanguaging and Sociocultural Learning theories, which highlight language as a tool for thinking and social interaction. The study contributes theoretically to language learning strategies and provides practical insights for teachers in multilingual classrooms. The limitation of this study lies in its small sample size and single-site focus, suggesting that future research should involve schools with different linguistic backgrounds.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJoLTE

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

International Journal of Language Teaching and Education (IjolTe) is an open access published by Universitas Jambi, Master Program of English Language Education, Jambi, Indonesia. IJoLTe receives research-based and conceptual articles on English Language Education, Language Policy, English for ...