Persistent use of mixed code: An exploration of its functions in Hong Kong schools

Persistent use of mixed code: An exploration of its functions in Hong Kong schools

• Low, Winni W. M. Pentecostal Lam Hon Kwong School of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
• Lu, Dan Language Center, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong

International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 9(2), 181-204, 2006

Routledge

2006

• F Learning & Teaching
  • FE Medium of Instruction, Language of Teaching, Bi-& Multilingual Education, Problems of Bilingualism, Code-mixing & Code-switching
• N Students & Student Services
  • NC Charactieristics & Conditions of Students; Opinion & Attitudes of Students, Problems of Adjustment

Foreign Countries Bilingualism Code Switching (Language) Questionnaires Metalinguistics Sino Tibetan Languages English Communicative Competence (Languages) Hong Kong

• Hong Kong

• 1997.7 onwards

• Unknown or Unspecified

Codemixing of Cantonese Chinese and English is a common speech behaviour used by bilingual people in Hong Kong. Though codemixing is repeatedly criticised as a cause of the decline of students' language competence, there is little hard evidence to indicate its detrimental effects. This study examines the use of mixed code in the context of the home setting, school setting and leisure activities. The data are complied from a questionnaire completed by 160 Hong Kong teachers and students. Subjects recorded their awareness of their frequency and purposes of using a mixed code communication style. Results showed that codemixing was frequently used by the subjects. Findings suggested that codemixing performed certain communicative functions and was used for various practical purposes. Codemixing appears to be a customary component of a bilingual society. No matter whether people dislike or prefer it, codemixing continues to exist and satisfy bilingual speakers' communicative needs. Administrative sanctions may not be effective.
[Copyright of International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism is the property of Routledge. Full article may be available at the publisher's website:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13670050608668640 ]

• English

Journal Articles

• 13670050

• 10.1080/13670050608668640

https://bibliography.lib.eduhk.hk/bibs/edafd84f

2010-09-27