Strategic Use of Code Switching by Elementary School Teachers in Teaching Subjects

Strategic Use of Code Switching by Elementary School Teachers in Teaching Subjects

By: Ibrahimovick Rauf; Supervisor By: Muziatun, S.pd, M.App.ling, Ph.D

Strategic code switching by elementary school teachers is a powerful tool in multilingual classrooms. It not only aids in comprehension and academic achievement but also promotes linguistic and cultural inclusivity, contributing to a more holistic and effective educational experience. English language education at the elementary school level plays an important role in forming the basis of students' language skills. However, challenges arise when students have to learn a new language that is very different from their mother tongue. The code switching method emerged as an effective approach to help students understand and master English.

Code switching is the practice of switching between two or more languages or language variations in the same communication context. In the context of language teaching, code switching can be used to explain difficult concepts, provide instruction, and facilitate student understanding. In elementary school, where students are still in the early stages of developing cognitive and linguistic abilities, the use of code switching can be very beneficial. 

In this elementary school more precisely at sdn 5 Suwawa I interviewed an English teacher namely Mrs. Katrina and she said that the use of language transfer is very useful for elementary schools because students can interact freely and express what they want, whereas if using full English the students will be confused and do not know where the learning direction will go, therefore a teacher uses language transfer in teaching elementary school students. 

The Impact of Using Code Switching in English Language Teaching by Elementary School

Improves Communication Skills:

Code switching allows students to be more flexible in communicating. With the ability to switch between their native language and English, students can express their ideas more fluently and effectively. This is especially important in situations where they may lack vocabulary in either language, allowing them to still communicate fluently.

Facilitating Understanding of Academic Concepts:

The use of code switching in teaching can help students understand complex concepts more easily. Teachers can explain difficult concepts in English and then repeat them in the students' native language to ensure better understanding. This is especially useful in math, science, and other subjects that require deep understanding.