The Role of Translanguaging in ESP Classrooms

Abstract

Multilingual classrooms are transforming the landscape of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) instruction, making learning more accessible, inclusive, and engaging for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Rather than adhering to English-only teaching methods, educators are embracing translanguaging: a pedagogical approach that encourages students to draw on their entire linguistic repertoire including their first language as a bridge to mastering complex concepts and specialized terminology. This practice enhances comprehension and boosts learners’ confidence, enabling them to participate more actively in discussions, written assignments, and collaborative tasks. By allowing students to process challenging content in their familiar languages before transitioning to English, they are better equipped to grasp the intricate subject matter and contribute meaningfully to the learning process. More than just a comprehension tool, translanguaging fosters a sense of belonging by embracing students' linguistic and cultural identities, creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment. However, the effective implementation of translanguaging requires careful balance. Educators must ensure that while students strategically use their native languages, they also receive sufficient exposure to English to develop fluency in academic and professional contexts. When thoughtfully integrated, translanguaging serves as a form of scaffolding, gradually guiding learners toward independent use of English in specialized fields. This study employs a qualitative, thematic analysis approach to explore how translanguaging enriches ESP instruction. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with four experienced ESP educators working in multilingual classrooms where Arabic and French are the dominant student languages. The interviews focused on educators’ perceptions of translanguaging, its benefits, challenges, and practical applications in their teaching practices. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and key themes. The findings highlight not only the cognitive benefits of improved comprehension but also the broader advantages of preparing students for multilingual workplaces, where the ability to navigate multiple languages is an increasingly valuable skill. By recognizing and integrating linguistic diversity into the learning process, educators empower students to connect their prior knowledge with new content, fostering deeper engagement and supporting long-term success.