The influence of code switching and code mixing on teaching and learning English: the case of Form I classes in Bukoba municipality.

This study was conducted in order to determine the influence of Code Switching (CS) and Code Mixing (CM) on the teaching and learning of English. The objectives which guided this study include; to investigate the reasons for CS and CM; to identify the frequent initiator of CS and CM between a teacher and a student and determine the influence of CS and CM on the teaching and learning of English. The methods used in data collection were Observation, questionnaire and interview. As far as the research findings are concerned. It was revealed that CS and CM have influence on the teaching and learning of English. It was found out that, Form I English teachers code switch and code mix in order to enable their students match with the teaching of English. Additionally, it was revealed that students improve their understanding of English when CS and CM are applied. The recommendations of this study are numerous. First, CS and CM should be included in the language policy as one of the English teaching strategies. Second, KiswahiIi, the language spoken by the large percentage of students in Tanzanian secondary schools should be used as the reference language when learning English. Third, positive attitude should be built towards CS and CM in Form I classes. Fourth. language policy makers should involve Form I English teachers in order to get their input as these teachers understand the real classroom situation and could argue on why CS and CM should applied in the teaching of English in Form I classes.