Research Article

Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms

Volume: 11 Number: 1 March 24, 2026
TR EN

Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms

Abstract

This study investigates the use of translanguaging as a pedagogical scaffold to enhance comprehension and learner participation in EFL classrooms at the University of 08 Mai 1945, Guelma, Algeria. Translanguaging refers to the strategic and flexible use of learners’ full linguistic repertoires (including Arabic, French, and English) to support meaning-making and facilitate communication in multilingual classrooms. In Algerian higher education, where students frequently navigate multiple languages, translanguaging offers a practical means to bridge linguistic gaps, clarify complex concepts, and promote active engagement.The study adopts a qualitative case study design, drawing on classroom observations, student questionnaires, and semi-structured instructor interviews to explore the ways in which translanguaging supports comprehension and participation. Findings indicate that learners benefit from the deliberate integration of multiple languages, showing enhanced understanding of lesson content, increased confidence, and higher levels of interaction during classroom activities. Instructors’ purposeful use of translanguaging fosters a more inclusive learning environment, allowing all students to contribute meaningfully to classroom discourse. The research also highlights challenges associated with translanguaging, including balancing English exposure with multilingual support and navigating institutional expectations for English-only instruction. The findings underscore the potential of translanguaging as an effective pedagogical strategy in Algerian EFL classrooms and provide practical recommendations for teacher training, curriculum design, and instructional practices that leverage students’ multilingual resources to improve both cognitive and interactional learning outcomes.

Keywords

Supporting Institution

University of 08 Mai 1945, Guelma, Algeria

Ethical Statement

This article presents original research conducted by the author, Himoura Kawther, on translanguaging practices in Master 2 Communication courses at the University of 08 Mai 1945, Guelma, Algeria. The study involves passive classroom observation and anonymized student responses. No intervention or grading influence occurred, and all participants were informed of the study’s purpose and provided voluntary consent.

Thanks

The author thanks all participants for their cooperation and contribution to this research.

References

  1. Boukhentache, S. (2024). EFL teachers’ attitudes towards the implementation of translanguaging in Algerian schools and universities. Afkar wa Affak, 12(3), 125–146
  2. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
  3. Canagarajah, S. (2011). Translanguaging in the classroom: Emerging issues for research and pedagogy. Applied Linguistics Review, 2(1), 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110239331.1
  4. Creese, A., & Blackledge, A. (2010). Translanguaging in the bilingual classroom: A pedagogy for learning and teaching? The Modern Language Journal, 94(1), 103–115. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4781.2009.00986.x
  5. García, O. (2009). Bilingual education in the 21st century: A global perspective. Wiley-Blackwell.
  6. García, O., & Sylvan, C. E. (2011). Pedagogies and practices in multilingual classrooms: Singularities in pluralities. The Modern Language Journal, 95(3), 385–400. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4781.2011.01208.x
  7. García, O., & Li, W. (2014). Translanguaging: Language, bilingualism and education. Palgrave Macmillan.
  8. Lekatompessy, F. M., & Lekatompessy, J. (2025). Translanguaging and formative assessment practices in multilingual EFL classrooms. Huele: Journal of Applied Linguistics, Literature and Culture, 5(2), 102–122. https://doi.org/10.30598/huele.v5.i2.p102-122

Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

English As A Second Language

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

March 24, 2026

Submission Date

December 31, 2025

Acceptance Date

February 7, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 11 Number: 1

APA
Kawther, H. (2026). Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms. Turkish Academic Research Review, 11(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.30622/tarr.1852730
AMA
1.Kawther H. Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms. tarr. 2026;11(1):1-14. doi:10.30622/tarr.1852730
Chicago
Kawther, Himoura. 2026. “Translanguaging As a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms”. Turkish Academic Research Review 11 (1): 1-14. https://doi.org/10.30622/tarr.1852730.
EndNote
Kawther H (March 1, 2026) Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms. Turkish Academic Research Review 11 1 1–14.
IEEE
[1]H. Kawther, “Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms”, tarr, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 1–14, Mar. 2026, doi: 10.30622/tarr.1852730.
ISNAD
Kawther, Himoura. “Translanguaging As a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms”. Turkish Academic Research Review 11/1 (March 1, 2026): 1-14. https://doi.org/10.30622/tarr.1852730.
JAMA
1.Kawther H. Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms. tarr. 2026;11:1–14.
MLA
Kawther, Himoura. “Translanguaging As a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms”. Turkish Academic Research Review, vol. 11, no. 1, Mar. 2026, pp. 1-14, doi:10.30622/tarr.1852730.
Vancouver
1.Himoura Kawther. Translanguaging as a Pedagogical Scaffold in Algerian University EFL Classrooms. tarr. 2026 Mar. 1;11(1):1-14. doi:10.30622/tarr.1852730