For years there has been an insistence on avoiding the use of the mother tongue when learning a foreign language, in favor of total immersion. But is this really effective? Recent studies have disproved this idea. They show that integrating the mother tongue into the classroom not only facilitates learning, but also maximizes students’ potential. Find out how this strategy can transform language teaching.
The science behind the use of mother tongue in the classroom
In language teaching, the “monolingual bias” has historically been promoted, suggesting that students should strive to reach the level of native speakers. However, this approach has been shown to generate anxiety and frustration. On the contrary, recent research reveals that allowing the use of the native language in certain activities improves communication, organizes tasks, and strengthens the relationship with teachers.
Far from being a distraction, the mother tongue facilitates complex cognitive processes and favors collaborative learning. In addition, those who master more than one language have cognitive and social advantages that can be enhanced through a bilingual educational approach.
Innovative methodologies in language learning
Current methodologies are transforming language teaching, especially through approaches such as communicative teaching and content and language integrated learning (CLIL). Both methodologies focus on active and collaborative learning, but vary in the use of the mother tongue:
Communicative teaching.
This approach emphasizes practical, real-world tasks, such as solving problems or developing team projects. Although it encourages the exclusive use of the foreign language, students may feel more comfortable using their native language to organize themselves or clarify doubts.
Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL)
In this approach, students work on specific subjects, such as science or mathematics, using the foreign language. This method favors total immersion in the new language. However, occasional use of the mother tongue can be useful to overcome difficulties and advance in the work.
Translingualism: a bridge to effective learning
Translingualism, a flexible approach that allows for the dynamic use of both languages, has gained prominence as a key tool in modern teaching. By allowing students to switch between languages, it builds their confidence and develops advanced cognitive skills, such as problem solving and accurate expression. This approach recognizes that being bilingual or multilingual is an asset and promotes the full use of students’ linguistic repertoire.
Final Reflection
The inclusion of the mother tongue in language learning should not be seen as a weakness, but as a powerful strategy for optimizing learning. Adopting flexible approaches such as translingualism allows learners to improve their confidence, communicate more effectively, and tap into their linguistic potential. Language teaching does not have to be monolingual; on the contrary, an inclusive approach can enrich the educational experience and facilitate smoother communication.
Continue your professional training
Integrating the mother tongue into language learning can improve students’ confidence and communication. If you are interested in language teaching and want to learn about innovative methodologies such as translingualism, our Master’s in Spanish as a Foreign Language Teacher Training will provide you with the tools you need to enrich your career. This program will prepare you to face current challenges in language teaching and open new professional opportunities in the educational field.
Source:
What Is Translanguaging and How Is It Used in the Classroom?
Only in English’: Is it useful to use the mother tongue when learning a foreign language?
