Teaching Between Tongues: Code-Switching And Its Pedagogical Value at Quaid-I-Azam University

Abstract

English holds a prestigious status as an official language in Pakistan. However, despite being a compulsory subject in schools and colleges, English poses serious challenges for students. Due to a challenging examination system and outdated course books, students often struggle to perform effectively in the English language. As a result, even at the university level, students lack proficiency, particularly in speaking and listening skills. In response to this challenge, teachers sometimes resort to using L1 to facilitate the language learning process. This study, conducted at Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad, investigates whether code-switching is accepted as a teaching methodology by both teachers and students. Data were collected through two separate questionnaires administered to students and teachers at the Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.

Most teachers, along with their students, acknowledge code-switching as an effective approach to teaching. Two groups share that L1 usage must remain limited for better results, yet needs to be used deliberately. The study finds strong approval from both teaching staff and students regarding the effective nature of code-switching as a teaching methodology. The study offers essential knowledge for teachers to make teaching adjustments that enhance learning outcomes in their language classes.