Date Available
7-20-2024
Year of Publication
2024
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Document Type
Doctoral Dissertation
College
Education
Department/School/Program
Education Sciences
First Advisor
Dr. Janice F. Almasi
Abstract
Integrating research on both linguistic and semiotic resources of translanguaging practices, this research was carried out using a case study design to understand how translanguaging was used by both ESL teachers and adult language learners in the ESL setting, what functions translanguaging performs, and how teachers and students understand their translanguaging practice. Nine adult ESL learners at the intermediate level and an ESL teacher participated in this research. Data sources included observations, interviews, field notes, and reflective journals. Discourse analysis was used to analyze the transcription of observations and interviews. Results showed that participants used various forms of translanguaging, including gestures, L1s, facial expressions, English songs, etc. Translanguaging performed seven functions in this language class: (a) to substitute words or phrases that someone forgets or does not know, (b) to facilitate understanding by supporting the oral presentation, (c) to add new meanings by supplementing the oral presentation, (d) to ease anxiety, (e) to show understanding or clarify misunderstanding, (f) to make associations between languages, and (g) to acknowledge others as multilinguals. In addition, interviews showed that most participants held a relatively positive attitude toward translanguaging, with slightly various thoughts and ideas. Practical and research implications were also discussed.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.13023/etd.2024.276
Recommended Citation
Yuan, Dongyang, "Functions of Translanguaging Practices and Teachers’ and Students’ Perceptions of Translanguaging in ESL Universities" (2024). Theses and Dissertations--Curriculum and Instruction. 46.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/edc_etds/46
