20–22 Nov 2026
The WINC Aichi
Asia/Tokyo timezone

Beyond Language Barriers: Student Subjectivity on Translanguaging in Multilingual EMI Classrooms of Thailand’s Deep South

21 Nov 2026, 18:10
30m
The WINC Aichi

The WINC Aichi

Research-oriented Presentation (30-minutes) ART: Art, Research, and Teaching Room 1202

Speaker

Nasree Pitaksuksan

Abstract section 2: Contribution/research questions

  1. What are the distinct subjectivities of university students regarding translanguaging practices in EMI classrooms?
  2. How do distinct learner groups employ diverse translanguaging strategies to enhance their engagement and comprehension?

Abstract section 4: Outcomes/results

The analysis identified three distinct student viewpoints. Tech-Assisted Learners rely heavily on AI and translation tools to understand difficult content. In contrast, Verbal Strategists prefer social interaction, using spoken code-switching and discussion with peers to clarify meaning. Finally, Confidence-Driven Learners rely on their own mental processing, switching languages to build confidence and understanding, rather than depending on tools or others. These findings show that translanguaging is a flexible strategy that varies according to individual learner needs.

Abstract section 3: Content/method

The study involved 40 university students in Narathiwat province. Q methodology was utilized to capture personal viewpoints quantitatively and qualitatively, relying on the foundational principles of Stephenson (1953) to reveal subjective perspectives (Brown, 1996; Thumvichit, 2022). Participants completed Q-sorting tasks involving statements on language use, followed by post-sort interviews. The analysis and interpretation were conducted following the guidelines of Watts and Stenner (2012).

Abstract section 1: Relevance

English Medium Instruction (EMI) often presents significant challenges, including language barriers, reduced comprehension, and limited class participation (Macaro, 2020). Translanguaging, which allows the flexible use of multiple languages, offers a potential solution to these issues by validating students' full linguistic repertoire (Canagarajah, 2011a). Research suggests that flexible bilingual pedagogies can enhance learning and teaching in multilingual settings (Creese & Blackledge, 2010). This study applies these concepts to the unique multicultural context of Thailand's Deep South.

Abstract section 5: References

Brown, S. R. (1996). Q methodology and qualitative research. Qualitative Health Research, 6(4), 561–567. https://doi.org/10.1177/104973239600600408
Canagarajah, A. S. (2011a). Translanguaging in the classroom: Emerging issues for research and pedagogy. Applied Linguistics Review, 2(1), 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110239331.1
Creese, A., & Blackledge, A. (2010). Translanguaging in the bilingual classroom: A pedagogy for learning and teaching. The Modern Language Journal, 94(1), 103–115. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4781.2009.00986.x
Macaro, E. (2020). Exploring the role of language in English medium instruction. International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 23(3), 263–276. https://doi.org/10.1080/13670050.2019.1620678
Stephenson, W. (1953). The study of behavior: Q-technique and its methodology. University of Chicago Press.
Thumvichit, A. (2022). Illuminating insights into subjectivity: Q as a methodology in applied linguistics research. Applied Linguistics Review, 15(2), 531-554. https://doi.org/10.1515/applirev2021-0205
Watts, S., & Stenner, P. (2012). Doing Q methodological research: Theory, method and interpretation. Sage Publications.

Title Multilingual Students' Subjectivities on Translanguaging
Teaching Context College and university education

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