Code-Switching: An Impediment to Teaching and Learning English in Multilingual Contexts

Abstract

Code-switching is the process of switching between two or more languages in the same conversation or within the same turn of talk, and as a phenomenon, it is rife with both potentialities in the context of multilingual education. This review, therefore, critically looks at the effects of code-switching in teaching and learning English in such settings. Therefore, through the synthesis of current literature, the paper aims to provide insight into the relationship between the challenges and opportunities of code-switching as well as its advantages and disadvantages in learning environments that involve the teaching of English as a second or foreign language. In line with the need to appreciate the complex nature of code-switching processes, the review defines the challenges posed by this practice while, at the same time, pointing out the benefits of code-switching for language learning. Thus, the goal of this paper is to enhance the understanding of code-switching as a complex process and offer practical recommendations for educators and researchers interested in improving language learning in multicultural contexts.

Keywords: Code-switching, languages, phenomenon, multilingual, education, teaching and learning English