Exploring Code Switching As A Communicative Strategy In Informal Virtual Communication: The Case Of Ma Students Of The Department Of English At Mmuto

Résumé: The present research examines the use of code switching by EFL students as a communicative strategy in informal virtual communication. More specifically, it aims at checking how and why EFL learners switch codes in virtual scenes. To reach these objectives, we have analyzed conversations obtained from a Facebook chat group encompassing 30 EFL Master Two students from Mouloud Mammeri University of Tizi-Ouzou. The analytical framework consists of a combination of Appel and Muysken’s (2006) “six functions of code switching” and Malik’s (1994) “ten reasons for code switching”. The research methodology revolves around a mixed-methods research that merges quantitative and qualitative methods. In order to get more reliable data and reinforce the validity of the findings, a questionnaire is addressed to the participants. The collected data were analyzed using the Descriptive Statistical Method and Qualitative Content Analysis. The results show that the most dominant functions in students’ online conversations are directive, poetic and phatic. Concerning the reasons, the findings have revealed that Master Two students’ code switching is dominated by four out of ten reasons for code switching. The reasons are pragmatic reasons, lack of facility, to show identity with a group and to address a different audience. Additionally, it is noted in the findings that the way the participants perceive and use code switching is different. To conclude, the participants use code switching as a communicative strategy to minimize language difficulties to ensure effective communication.

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