In this episode of Author to Author, Dr. Cynthia Toolin-Wilson interviews Fr. Thomas Kagumisa on his book Translanguaging: Teaching English to Secondary School Students in Tanzania (November 9, 2023)

This book is a synthesis of Tanzanian educators’ core beliefs and perspectives on the effectiveness of translanguaging strategies in Teaching English as a Foreign Language to secondary school students. While the existing literature informs and addresses the topic of translanguaging in a general way, the present study does so with a particular focus on the Tanzanian educational context. The data collected from select participants through an online survey confirmed that translanguaging strategies facilitate lesson comprehension, active engagement, satisfaction, and less stress during the lesson. Conversely, adherence to the English Only Policy (EOP) acts as a barrier toward lesson comprehension, causes tension and a stressful atmosphere, and creates fear and lack of confidence, especially among students with little background in literacy. As a solution, the author recommends adapting specific translanguaging techniques such as the use of insertional and alternating methods, creating opportunities for professional development of English educators, and prioritizing instructional strategies that sustain students’ cultural identities.

Translanguaging: Teaching English to Secondary School Students in Tanzania | En Route Books and Media