Investigating the Efficacy of Translanguaging in Augmenting English Speaking Fluency among MBBS 2nd-Year Students: A Case Study

Abstract

The role of translanguaging is considered positive in improving English speaking fluency. The article aims to examine the impact of translanguaging on the speaking fluency of Pakistani L2 medical learners and ascertain their perception towards using translanguaging in augmenting English-speaking fluency. The study employed a mixed method approach, with 50 college level, Mbbs 2^nd year, Batch B students in Shalamar Medical College, Lahore. For twelve weeks, the batch B students received spoken English sessions employing translanguaging. Pre and post-tests were conducted before and after twelve weeks to identify differences among the speaking test marks before and after the sessions. A subset of participants was selected for semi-structured interviews to discuss their perceptions and experiences with the usage of translanguaging in sessions along with its impact on improving spoken fluency of students. The outcomes indicated that the students showed huge improvement in their post speaking tests and that the subjects of the study perceived translanguaging as a positive activity that enhances speaking English fluency. The study has pedagogical and academic implications in medical colleges.