Polish – just like “another english”: perceptions of translanguaging and other bilingual practices in English and Polish FL classrooms in Taiwanese universities

Natalia Tsai

doi:10.18778/0860-6587.27.21

Authors

Natalia Tsai Hsin Wu University, College of Hospitality and Tourism, The Department of Applied English, No. 101, Sec. 1, Fenliao Rd, New Taipei City, Linkou District 24452, Taiwan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3965-5704

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18778/0860-6587.27.21

Keywords:

translanguaging, bilingualism, multilingualism, Taiwan, EFL, Polish FL

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how English and Polish FL learners in Taiwan perceive translanguaging and other bilingual practices implemented in university classrooms. Around 70% of the questionnaire respondents were positive about monolingual instruction, however, only 7% though it should prevail. More than 90% accepted the usage of more than one language in class. Among the main benefits of single-language instruction, efficiency of the learning process and promoting one’s listening and speaking skills were mentioned. Deeper understanding and easier self-expression were seen as the main benefits of the bilingual approach. Different in-class activities that should be carried out in the target/native language have also been listed. Generally, the participants preferred mixed-language instruction, although they were aware of the benefits of the monolingual approach. Thus, teachers may consider including more diversified techniques to answer to the varying needs of Taiwanese EFL and PFL learners.

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