| Title: |
Multilingual Education in Life Sciences: Teachers' and Learners' Beliefs about Code-Switching |
| Language: |
English |
| Authors: |
Zanele Vilakazi (ORCID 0000-0002-5285-8821); Lydia Mavuru (ORCID 0000-0001-9099-0746); Sam Ramaila (ORCID 0000-0002-7351-477X) |
| Source: |
Journal of Baltic Science Education. 2024 23(6):1291-1309. |
| Availability: |
Scientia Socialis Ltd. 29 K. Donelaicio Street, LT-78115 Siauliai, Republic of Lithuania. e-mail: scientia@scientiasocialis.lt; e-mail: mail.jbse@gmail.com; Web site: http://www.scientiasocialis.lt/jbse/ |
| Peer Reviewed: |
Y |
| Page Count: |
19 |
| Publication Date: |
2024 |
| Document Type: |
Journal Articles; Reports - Research |
| Education Level: |
Secondary Education; Grade 10; High Schools |
| Descriptors: |
Biological Sciences; Science Education; Multilingualism; Language Usage; Code Switching (Language); Teacher Attitudes; Student Attitudes; Secondary School Teachers; Secondary School Students; Barriers; Foreign Countries; Grade 10; Student Diversity; Language of Instruction |
| Geographic Terms: |
South Africa |
| ISSN: |
1648-3898; 2538-7138 |
| Abstract: |
In South Africa, where multilingualism is prevalent, codeswitching--a practice of alternating between languages--plays a significant role in shaping classroom dynamics and learning outcomes. This study explores the beliefs of both teachers and learners regarding code-switching in Life Sciences classrooms. Utilizing quantitative methods, the research is grounded in the Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) framework which emphasizes the pivotal role of language in the learning process. Data were collected from 100 learners and 44 secondary school teachers across multilingual areas in Sedibeng West, Gauteng Province in South Africa, using questionnaires. The findings reveal that teachers view code-switching as an effective strategy for clarifying complex scientific concepts and addressing language barriers, despite concerns about its potential impact on language proficiency and dependency. Learners, on the other hand, value code-switching for its role in making learning material more accessible and understandable. This study highlights the nuanced role of code-switching in enhancing educational outcomes in multilingual settings and suggests its potential benefits and challenges in the context of Life Sciences education. |
| Abstractor: |
As Provided |
| Entry Date: |
2025 |
| Accession Number: |
EJ1456307 |
| Database: |
ERIC |