Arabic or English or Both? Exploring Emirati University Students' Attitudes Toward Translanguaging

• In Event: 60.060 - Translanguaging Pedagogies and Practices

Abstract

Using sociolinguistic and social constructivist theoretical frameworks, this qualitative research study explored bilingual Arabic English Emirati university students attitudes towards the use of translanguaging pedagogies in a university course taught in English. Sixty-three Emirati university students completed a questionnaire which elicited information about their attitudes towards completing translanguaging assignments. Findings indicate that the participants preferred completing assignments in both languages. They stated that they found the assignments to be intellectually stimulating, and that they helped them to improve their skills in both languages. Many of the participants found it challenging to complete the assignments in Arabic. Policy makers and practitioners need to make sure language policies facilitate sustaining Arabic as well as encouraging the use of translanguaging in bilingual programs.

Authors

• Patience A. Sowa, Educational Consultant

• Lolowa Al Marzouqi, Zayed University