Code-Switching in an EFL Classroom: A study of language choice

Abstract

The study focuses on highlighting the attitudes of teachers and students towards the patterns, functions, factors and influence of code-switching in a foreign language classroom. The main purpose of this study is to identify the significance of each function of code-switching and the specific pedagogical functions code-switching serves in the classrooms. The subjects were selected by simple random sampling technique from among the BS students and teachers from English, Education and Economics Departments of University of Sargodha. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were integrated to analyze teachers’ code switching through questionnaires and classroom observation. Questionnaires were used to collect the opinion of the teachers and the students.The lectures were also recorded and analyzed using Gumperz’ Model of Code-switching.It was noticed that the code switching was prevalent in the English class in all departments at University of Sargodha. It was concluded that it would play a constructive, positive and pivotal role in the process of teaching and learning of English language.