The Experiences of Teachers in Implementing Translanguaging

Abstract

Research indicates that teachers of English Language Learners face many obstacles and challenges when implementing translanguaging strategies. Some teachers hesitate to employ translanguaging due to language barrier, political views, and ideologies. Research has highlighted teachers’ struggle with integrating both the home language and the target language in the classroom due to a lack of adequate training and professional development. The literature suggests addressing these issues by enhancing training and professional development to equip teachers with the necessary knowledge and resources for effective translanguaging implementation. In response, a professional development is designed for teachers from grades 1-4 at Riverhead Central School District. This program aims to deepen teachers’ understanding of translanguaging concepts and offer them extensive training and strategies to implement translanguaging in the classroom. Recommendations for future research on translanguaging as a practice in the classroom would be to provide teachers with more professional development sessions, invite district superintendents to the professional development sessions, and allot more time for teachers to meet with the ENL team.