The Effects of Code-Mixing on Second Language Development

Abstract

Second language development is an important topic of discussion in an increasingly multilingual world. This study aims to examine and detail research on the effects of code-mixing (CM) on second language development, answering how CM facilitates or constrains second language acquisition. Peer-reviewed articles on the topic published between 2013 and 2018 were examined and synthesized. Language learners/ multilinguals answered questionnaires about their views on CM and second language acquisition, and a language teacher was interviewed regarding use of L1 in the language classroom and CM as a pedagogical tool. This study found that CM can be a beneficial tool for language learning and instruction at the beginning stages of a learner’s acquisition, but use of L1 becomes less necessary and less beneficial as a language learner moves closer to fluency. However, CM is not necessarily a sign of low language competence and is used by multilinguals for a number of reasons.