Code switching in the language classroom. (c2014)

Abstract

This paper is a study dealing with code switching in the beginner Spanish classroom. The aim of the study was to explore teachers’ attitudes and practices regarding the use of code switching in beginner Spanish classes in Lebanon. The study attempted to explore the benefits of the use of the students’ native language in beginner Spanish courses in different contexts in Lebanon. It also explored on a small scale the students’ attitudes on code switching, as this provided a more holistic understanding on the subject. Twelve teachers from different nationalities teaching at different educational institutes in Lebanon were randomly chosen. All of them were interviewed and were asked to fill in a questionnaire. Four of them were observed while teaching. The results of the study supported the current research that encourages the use of the native language when needed in the beginner language classroom as a tool to enhance the process of teaching and learning. The study also supported previous findings that state that code switching must not be considered as a fault of the teacher but rather a strategy that must be carefully employed; and that code switching should be allowed when necessary with some learners and in certain learning situations.