Multilingual language practices and in-service teacher’s narratives

SUMMARY

EXISTING KNOWLEDGE:

1. Language Policy in Multilingual Classrooms: Official language policies often mandate the use of a national language for instruction, but this can be difficult in multilingual settings where students speak different local languages.

2. Translanguaging in Education: Teachers often mix languages in the classroom to aid comprehension, with research showing that translanguaging can support learning by clarifying concepts and engaging students.

3. Teachers' Struggles with Policy: Teachers often feel pressured to follow official language policies, even though these may not align with students' language abilities, affecting teaching effectiveness.

NEW INSIGHTS FROM THIS STUDY:

1. Language Practices in Choma District: Muzeya and Mkandawire’s study reveals that teachers in Zambia’s Choma District mixed languages in literacy instruction despite being instructed to use only the official language. They did so to ensure students understood the lessons.

2. Policy vs. Classroom Realities: Teachers reported challenges adhering to language policies due to students' limited proficiency in the official language. The study illustrates a disconnect between policy expectations and classroom realities.

3. Translanguaging as a Teaching Strategy: The study highlights that teachers viewed the use of local languages as a crucial tool for promoting understanding and inclusivity in multilingual classrooms.

PUTTING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE:

1. Support Translanguaging: Policymakers should acknowledge the benefits of translanguaging and allow teachers more flexibility in language use to improve learning outcomes.

2. Provide Teacher Training: Teacher training programs should focus on strategies for teaching in multilingual classrooms, helping teachers balance official language use with students' language needs.

3. Revise Language Policies: Language policies should be adapted to reflect the linguistic realities of classrooms, allowing teachers to use a mix of languages where necessary.

REFERENCE: 

Article Title: We Mix Languages When Teaching Literacy but They Told Us to Use the Official Language for Instruction”: In-service Teachers’ Narratives of Language Practices and Policy in Multilingual Reading Classes of Choma District of Zambia 

Authors:  Muzeya and Mkandawire  

Journal: British Journal of Multidisciplinary and Advanced Studies: English Lang., Teaching, Literature, Linguistics & Communication, Year: 2024