English Education Master’s Program Students’ Perceptions on the Use of Code-Switching in EFL Classroom Context

Abstract

This paper investigated some factors influencing the use of code-switching in foreign/second language learning processes. Code-switching is related to the shift between the first and second languages done by the speakers in conversational contexts. Based on the theories of code-switching, second language learners frequently apply their first language when communicating with others in order to deliver the messages clearly, maintain group solidarity, and avoid unintended misunderstandings. Data were collected through a classroom survey and interviews with 12 English Education Master’s Program students of Sanata Dharma University, Yogyakarta. Qualitative content analysis was applied to obtain clearer interpretations. The results showed the lecturers and students utilized code-switching more sensibly in the second language classroom context. Further, code-switching will be better to be implemented in informal social interactions rather than foreign/second language classroom settings since it will hamper EFL learners’ success in attaining more fruitful target language competencies.