The frequency of using code-switching between English and Vietnamese at the workplace .... LIST OF FIGURES Figure 4.1: Distribution of respondents by age group 20 Figure 4.2: Distributio
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Language serves as the primary means of human communication and evolves alongside societal and cultural changes As cultures interact and develop, phenomena such as code-switching emerge, reflecting the dynamic nature of language Bilingual and multilingual individuals often switch between languages instinctively, a practice known as code-switching This article explores examples of Vietnamese English code-switching, highlighting the intricate relationship between language and culture.
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Code-switching is a common occurrence in Vietnam, manifesting in both formal and informal communication contexts While some view it as a way to enrich ethnic languages by introducing new terminology, particularly in science and technology, others argue that it compromises the purity of the Vietnamese language Ultimately, code-switching enhances communication diversity and provides quicker access to advanced cultures and civilizations, reflecting the ongoing debate surrounding its impact on linguistic integrity.
Code-switching plays a crucial role in modern communication, particularly in Vietnam, where switching between Vietnamese and English has become prevalent The study of English has transcended traditional classroom settings, igniting a widespread enthusiasm for the language across society Many Vietnamese individuals pursue English to enhance their earning potential and access scientific knowledge Furthermore, it serves as an essential communication strategy, facilitating accurate and effective message delivery, especially in professional environments.
Code-switching has emerged as a significant topic in the Vietnamese language, prompting limited research in the field Notably, Tran Van Dung explored the phenomenon of code-switching among Vietnamese teenagers, while Nguyen Ha Quyen examined the ways in which these adolescents incorporate multiple languages in their communication.
Code-switching in workplace conversations, particularly between Vietnamese and English, plays a significant role in effective communication However, there is a notable lack of research on this topic, both in Vietnam and globally, with existing studies failing to address the impacts and potential solutions for code-switching in professional settings The study titled "Code-switching between Vietnamese and English as an effective communication device at the workplaces in Hanoi" seeks to explore how code-switching facilitates communicative intent and serves specific functions in dialogue Additionally, the research aims to clarify the effects of code-switching and propose effective strategies for its use in the workplace.
Background
Since the late twentieth century, linguistics has emerged as a field dedicated to systematically analyzing how social factors influence language change, addressing the limitations of traditional linguistics By focusing on everyday communication, linguistics tackles various real-life issues and plays a crucial role in guiding effective language use.
Theoretical foundations of sociolinguistics include key works such as Fasold's "Sociolinguistics of Society," published in 1984, which explores the intricate relationship between social research and linguistic theory Additionally, Edward Sapir's 1929 work, "The Status of Linguistics as a Science," addresses fundamental issues in sociolinguistics, emphasizing the need for code-switching to engage with various anthropological and sociological challenges impacting language studies.
Vietnam has a rich history of learning English as a foreign language, with roots tracing back to the French colonial era, albeit with limited impact The year 1954 marked a significant shift, as English began to be influenced by Russian in the North and American culture in the South However, after 1975, the study of English experienced a decline due to the prevailing Russian influence.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Vietnam experienced a surge in English language learning due to its renovation and integration policies Following its accession to the WTO, English emerged as a crucial tool for global communication in Vietnam It became a mandatory subject in elementary, secondary, and tertiary education, serving as a vital asset for professionals and researchers seeking success in their fields.
Since the influx of foreign companies and educational initiatives, Vietnamese people have gained access to a wide array of English resources from both native and non-native English-speaking countries This includes opportunities to engage with English as a communication tool across Southeast Asia, the Asia Pacific, and Europe The ongoing globalization has established English as a global language, leading to an increase in code-switching between Vietnamese and English Consequently, this phenomenon has emerged as a significant topic in Vietnamese language policy within the current global linguistic landscape.
Objectives of the study
This research explores the phenomenon of code-switching between Vietnamese and English in workplace conversations, contributing to the theoretical understanding of code-switching in Vietnam amid globalization It investigates the frequency of code-switching in workplace communication and examines the relationship between various factors and attitudes towards this practice Additionally, the study highlights the impacts of code-switching in professional settings and provides insights on how to utilize code-switching effectively.
Research questions
This study aims to answer the following questions:
- How often do people use code-switching at the workplace?
- What are the reasons for using code-switching?
- What are the respondents’ attitudes towards Vietnamese English code- switching at the workplace?
- What are the positive and negative impacts of code-switching at the workplace?
- How to use code-switching properly and effectively at the workplace?
Significance of the study
This study provides an objective assessment of the code-switching phenomenon between Vietnamese and English in workplace conversations By understanding this linguistic practice, individuals can leverage code-switching as an effective communication tool, ultimately enhancing their work quality.
Scope and limitations of the study
This study mainly focuses on code-switching between Vietnamese and
English serves as a vital communication tool in workplace conversations; however, due to time constraints and a limited sample size, the findings may not be applicable to the broader Vietnamese population Furthermore, this research focuses specifically on code-switching, intentionally excluding slang and contemporary expressions commonly used by the youth in dialogue.
Definition of terms
Code-switching, also known as codeswitching or code switching, refers to the practice of mixing two or more languages within a single conversation This phenomenon can occur at various levels, including words, phrases, clauses, or entire sentences According to Halmari and Helena (2004), speakers engage in code-switching to effectively navigate between languages in order to achieve specific communicative objectives.
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Literature review
Research on code-switching has produced a variety of studies, each examining different facets of this phenomenon Notably, sociolinguist Auer explored code-switching in the context of conversations, interaction, and identity Furthermore, scholars like Lawson & Sachdev, Haugen, and Romaine have highlighted that bilingual speakers employ code-switching as an effective linguistic strategy to fulfill specific communicative objectives.
Recent research on code-switching between Vietnamese and English highlights its significance in expressing personality and affirming identity, as discussed by Tran Thi Tu Tran Van Dung focused on the code-switching behaviors of Vietnamese teenagers, while Nguyen Ha Quyen examined how these teens incorporate code-switching into their conversations Additionally, Do Thuy Trang explored the role of code-switching in media contexts.
Theoretical framework
Code-switching, also known as codeswitching or code switching, is a widely examined concept in linguistics and related disciplines According to Halmari (2004), it refers to the mixing of two or more languages within a single conversational context, which can happen at various levels, including words, phrases, clauses, or entire sentences.
Code-switching, as defined by Nordquist (2019), involves the practice of alternating between two languages or dialects within a conversation This phenomenon, also referred to as code-mixing or style-shifting, occurs when a speaker transitions from one linguistic form to another to meet specific communicative objectives.
Code-switching refers to the practice of incorporating elements from multiple languages into a primary language during conversation This linguistic phenomenon occurs when speakers alternate between two or more languages, enhancing communication and cultural expression.
6 conversation Chan et al (2009) usefully describe code-switching as “the intra- sentential switching of two different languages in a spoken utterance” (Chan et al,
Code-switching can be classified in various ways, with inter-sentential and intra-sentential being the most common types Inter-sentential code-switching occurs at sentence boundaries, typically at the beginning or end of a sentence, and is frequently observed among fluent bilingual speakers In contrast, intra-sentential code-switching happens seamlessly within a sentence, without any pauses or hesitations, often without the speaker's awareness of the shift.
- Inter-sentential: Chị đau đầu quá I need to go home and take a rest
- Intra-sentential: Performance của team A tốt hơn team B nhiều
Code-switching can be categorized into two primary types: situational and metaphorical Situational code-switching occurs when speakers switch languages based on the context they are in, using one language in one situation and another in a different setting (Wardhaugh, 2006) In contrast, metaphorical code-switching involves the use of different codes that convey specific social meanings, allowing speakers to express their identity and beliefs through their language choices (Holmes, 2001) The models proposed by Blom and Gumperz further differentiate between these two types, highlighting their roles as stylistic devices that convey diverse social meanings in discourse.
Myers-Scotton's markedness model of conversational code-switching emphasizes the speaker's choice in language use In this framework, code-switching is viewed as an "unmarked choice," highlighting the natural and effortless selection of language in conversation.
In speech communities, speakers typically utilize the expected code; however, code-switching is viewed as a "marked choice" when individuals opt for an unexpected code to create a strategic impact in their conversations.
2.2.3 Code-switching is a natural phenomenon
Code-switching has been a subject of study for many years, evolving into a distinct linguistic discipline This phenomenon is closely linked to contemporary issues such as national migration, globalization, and the resulting interconnection of languages and cultures.
Code-switching is a vital skill that enables bilingual individuals to alternate between languages during communication Linguists assert that for those who speak multiple languages, using more than one language in a single interaction is a natural and unavoidable part of effective communication.
Code-switching, as defined by Myers-Scotton, refers to the blending of multiple linguistic varieties in discourse, reflecting the everyday bilingual experience of individuals Supporting this perspective, Saunders (1988) provided evidence that reinforces Myers's assertion regarding the integral role of bilingualism in daily communication.
Bilingual individuals can seamlessly incorporate two or more languages into their speech, enhancing the emotional depth and vibrancy of conversations This practice, known as code-switching, enriches communication and fosters better understanding between speakers In a bilingual context, switching languages is a natural expression of thoughts and ideas, reflecting the speaker's linguistic versatility.
Some researchers argue that code-switching indicates a lack of linguistic competence and education, suggesting it should be avoided in conversations Certain linguists categorize code-switching as a notable linguistic phenomenon.
“interference”, which is both supported and disapproved at the same time Weinreich (1968) identified interference as a deviation from the approved norms
Bilingual communication often involves the concepts of "interference" and "code-switching," which are distinct according to Auer (1998) While interference refers to the assimilation of linguistic features from one language into another, code-switching occurs when bilinguals incorporate unassimilated words or phrases from a different language into their speech This process maintains the independence of both languages, allowing them to retain their unique linguistic characteristics.
Code-switching is a common practice in multilingual societies, allowing individuals to seamlessly express their thoughts by alternating between two or more languages Linguists and researchers have identified various reasons for this phenomenon, highlighting its natural role in communication.
Martinez (2018) suggests that one reason for language interference in bilingual individuals is that they may involuntarily forget a word in one language, causing them to unintentionally use the equivalent term in another language.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Locale of the study
A questionnaire was developed and distributed to employees across five different workplaces in Hanoi using Google Forms The research included interviews with several participants; however, due to the impact of the Coronavirus, both the questionnaire survey and interviews were conducted online.
The workplaces represent 5 various fields to ensure the diversification: Banking, construction, information technology, education and export-import To be more specific, they are:
- Cleverlearn Vietnam – an English center belongs to ISET The research was taken at Van Cao branch, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
- Hoang Le Vu Cosmetics Import and Export Company, Dong Da District, Hanoi
- Vietnam Prosperity Joint-Stock Commercial Bank (VP Bank), Cau Giay District, Hanoi
- Transport Engineering Design Joint Stock Incorporated South (TEDI SOUTH), Ha Dong District, Hanoi
- Vietnam APPSIM Company Limited, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
Research design
The data were approached by quantitative and qualitative research methods In addition, descriptive, experimental, and diagnostic research design is applied to fulfill the objectives of the study.
Data gathering procedure
Prior to finalizing the questionnaire survey, four drafts were developed and refined to align with the research design and objectives The final version, created using Google Forms without referencing prior studies, was distributed to 186 participants across five different companies in Hanoi A total of 160 responses were successfully collected in the Vietnamese language, facilitating an effective data collection process through the questionnaire survey.
18 quickly completed in 5 days After having the results, the responses were translated into English
Then 5 people from 5 companies were selected to take part in a semi-structured interview The researcher asked them in Vietnamese and convesations were recorded with their permission The recording was translated into English and transcribed on paper Finally, responses from the questionnaire survey and the interview were analyzed to serve the research’s purpose.
Population, Sample and Sampling technique
The study focuses on the workforce in Hanoi, specifically targeting employees and officials in various workplaces Notably, freelancers are excluded from this research, as they often work remotely and may hold multiple jobs simultaneously.
To achieve a diverse sample, the survey included participants from various professions, job titles, workplaces, and age groups Occupations were categorized into five sectors: Banking, Construction, Education, Information Technology, and Import-Export Out of 186 questionnaires distributed across five different workplaces, 160 were completed and analyzed, yielding a 100% accuracy rate in the responses.
The research employed a non-probability sampling method, specifically convenience sampling, to enhance reliability Data collection was conducted through questionnaires and interviews across five diverse workplaces in various fields and locations in Hanoi.
Research instrument
This research employs two primary instruments: a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews The questionnaire is divided into five sections, with Part 1 gathering demographic information about respondents, including age, profession, and prior experience with code-switching Part 2 targets individuals who have not previously engaged in code-switching, while Part 3 continues to explore related themes.
The study focuses on individuals who have engaged in code-switching, exploring the connections between various factors and attitudes towards this practice Additionally, insights from chapter 5 address a critical research question regarding the effects of code-switching in the workplace.
The study offers a comprehensive overview of code-switching, particularly focusing on English-Vietnamese interactions in workplace conversations Through interviews, the researcher aimed to gather insights into participants' perspectives on code-switching and to explore practical solutions for its effective use Participants responded to three key questions, contributing valuable information to the discussion.
- In what cases do you use code-switching at the workplace?
- What are your point of views on using code-switching at the workplace?
- Do you have any advice for using code-switching properly?
Statistical treatment
Responses were gathered using Google Forms, an online data collection tool that automatically collects and summarizes participant answers after distributing the questionnaire The data was analyzed within Google Forms, which provided visual representations of the results through charts and pie graphs, illustrating the number of votes and the percentage of choices made by participants.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Characteristics of participants
A questionnaire was distributed to 184 participants across five companies, yielding 160 completed responses for an impressive response rate of 86.9% Notably, all responses were filled out correctly, achieving a 100% accuracy rate The questionnaire addressed four key areas: the frequency of code-switching between English and Vietnamese in the workplace, the reasons behind this practice, varying perspectives on code-switching, and its impacts in a professional setting Detailed findings can be found in sections 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, and 4.5.
Figure 4.1: Distribution of respondents by age group
The research was conducted on a relatively small sample – a group consisting of
A survey of 160 respondents revealed that the majority, 35%, are young adults aged 18 to 25, while 32% are between 26 and 35 years old Additionally, 20% fall within the 36 to 45 age range, and 13% are over 45 years old This data highlights a significant representation of younger individuals in the survey population.
Figure 4.2: Distribution of respondents by occupations
As can be seen from the chart, most respondents are working in education which accounts for 26% The minority are working in information - technology environment, which represent for 17%.
The frequency of using code-switching between English and Vietnamese
A recent survey revealed that 95% of respondents, or 152 out of 160, have utilized code-switching at least once, while only 5% reported never having used it Interestingly, half of those who claimed to have never engaged in code-switching acknowledged a lack of knowledge about English This finding supports Myers-Scotton's assertion in Chapter 2 that code-switching is an integral aspect of daily life.
Contruction Education Import - Export Information Technology Banking
Figure 4.3: Frequency of using code-switching in different communication situations at workplaces
The frequency of code-switching varies across different contexts In everyday interactions among colleagues, all survey participants reported using code-switching, albeit occasionally.
Research indicates that code-switching is more frequently employed in private group meetings compared to formal group meetings All participants reported using code-switching at least once in private settings, while approximately 7.2% indicated they had never used it in formal contexts Interviewees attributed this disparity to the familiarity and comfort level they share with colleagues in private meetings, as they often work with individuals from the same field.
FrequentlyOftenOccasionallyRarelyNever
23 formal group meetings, communicating with people who are not in the same field, same position makes them hesitate using code-switching
Code-switching is not only prevalent in spoken communication but also in writing, particularly in administrative documents A significant majority of respondents, 81.6%, reported never using code-switching in such papers, while 17.1% admitted to doing so rarely Interviews revealed a consensus that code-switching in administrative writing is largely deemed "necessary to avoid," with no participants acknowledging its use Conversely, code-switching appears more frequently in emails to private groups, with 36.8% of respondents indicating they use it occasionally.
People often engage in code-switching more during spoken communication than in writing, particularly when interacting with close friends or colleagues within the same professional field.
Reasons for using code-switching and not using code-switching
4.3.1.Reasons for not using code-switching
Data from this figure shows the reasons why people have not used code-switching Considering the figures, 4 reasons are chosen with a quite high percentage, except
Figure 4.4: Reasons for not using code-switching
The study identified three primary reasons for the reluctance to use code-switching, with each reason cited by 75% of participants: discomfort with code-switching, the ease of understanding Vietnamese for all, and a desire to preserve the purity of the Vietnamese language Additionally, 50% of respondents indicated that their lack of English knowledge contributed to their avoidance of code-switching Despite these factors, none of the participants overlooked the negative impact of code-switching on work efficiency.
4.3.2.Reasons for using code-switching
Using Vietnamese is easy to understand for everyone
Feeling uncomfortable when using code-switching
Preserve the purity of Vietnamese
Reasons for not using code-switching
Reasons for not using code-switching
Figure 4.5: Reasons for using code-switching
The figure illustrates some reasons why code-switching is used According to the results, respondents use code-switching mostly because it is hard for them to find
A significant 86.2% of respondents rely on Vietnamese equivalents and idioms during conversations, highlighting the challenge of finding direct translations for certain English acronyms and terminologies This trend is illustrated in Figure 4.6.
Other Willing to improve English vocabulary
Citing an English quote Attract attention and impress others Talk to people in the same fields
Do not want to be overheard Some English words are commonly used There are no equivalent words and idioms in Vietnamese
It is just a habit Feeling easy to express feelings in English
Reasons for using code-switching
Reasons for using code-switching
Figure 4.6: The extent of using specialized terms among different types of professions
In modern workplaces, specialized technology terms like "wifi," "clipboard," "link," "browser," "chip," and "mail" are prevalent; however, translating these terms into Vietnamese can be challenging, often leading to lengthy and inconsistent explanations instead of direct equivalents Moreover, acronyms such as "WHO," "CDs," and "DVDs" also lack suitable translations in Vietnamese, highlighting the complexities of language in the tech industry.
A recent survey aligns with Dam's (2017) findings, revealing that individuals often resort to code-switching when they lack the appropriate vocabulary or idioms to express familiar ideas To address this linguistic gap, they tend to switch to English as a compensatory strategy.
A significant factor in the prevalence of code-switching is the frequent use of certain English words, which account for 84.2% of common vocabulary, including terms like "laptop," "jazz," "emoji," "hot boy," and "hot girl." These words are utilized in both formal and informal contexts, aligning with Holmes's (2000) research on the motivations behind code-switching.
Terms used in the offices (email, meeting, checking, etc.)
Specialized terms of Technology - Information
Specialized terms of Export – Import
Specialized terms of Banking Specialized terms of Education
The extent of using specialized terms
27 in this case not because there is no words to explain, but because the people present in the conversation understand what they're referring to
The survey results indicate that engaging with peers in the same field, feeling comfortable expressing emotions in English, developing habits, and referencing English quotes rank third to sixth, respectively This aligns with Martinez (2018), who noted that bilingual individuals may inadvertently recall a word in one language when they forget it in another Conversely, the least emphasized factors were categorized as "other" with only 2 votes and a willingness to enhance English vocabulary, which received a mere 4.6%.
The relationship between related factors and attitudes towards code-
4.4.1 Different attitudes towards code-switching
Figure 4.7: Different attitudes towards code-switching
The figure 4.7 illustrates dissimilar attitudes towards code-switching in general
Considering the figures, more than 50% stayed neutral when thinking about code- switching 25% participants responded negatively to code-switching, whereas
Attitudes extremely uncomfortable uncomfortable neutral comfortable extremely comfortable
19% of them felt comfortable Only a very small number of them felt extremely uncomfortable (2.5%) and extremely comfortable (0.6%)
Figure 4.8: Reasons for feeling uncomfortable towards code-switching
By analyzing figure 4.8, the reasons for feeling uncomfortable are unveiled
A staggering 98.7% of participants reported feeling uncomfortable with code-switching for various reasons The top three concerns include the speaker's abuse of code-switching, its use in inappropriate contexts, and the preference for Vietnamese words that are easier to understand Notably, the abuse of code-switching was the most significant issue, receiving 145 votes, or 91.8% Anh emphasized the need for subtlety in determining when code-switching is appropriate, stating, “Using code-switching is common and not inherently negative, but its abuse is problematic It’s crucial to consider both the audience and the situation.”
Other The speaker does not pronounce clearly
Using code-switching in unsuitable situation
Using code-switching while Vietnamese words are much easier to understand
The speaker abuses code-switching
Do not understand the words
According to Figure 4.8, 39.2% of participants reported feeling uncomfortable due to a lack of understanding of the words, while 15.8% attributed their discomfort to unclear pronunciation by the speaker Additionally, only 0.6% cited other reasons for their unease.
4.4.2 The relationship between age and attitude towards code-switching
The study highlights the cause-effect relationship between code-switching and various influencing factors, with age being a primary consideration.
Table 4.1: The relationship between age and attitude towards code- switching
In the 18-25 age group, nearly 50% of participants expressed a neutral stance on code-switching, while 17 individuals reported feeling comfortable using it Notably, only one participant indicated they felt "extremely comfortable" with code-switching, and no one reported discomfort.
"extremely uncomfortable" This shows that the age group of 18 to 25 holds a
30 neutral viewpoint, not too harshly criticizing or supporting the use of code- switching
In the age group of 26 to 35, 55.8% of participants preferred a neutral stance on code-switching, mirroring the preferences of the 18 to 25 age group Additionally, 26.9% expressed discomfort with code-switching, which is 9.6% higher than those who felt comfortable Notably, no participants identified as "extremely uncomfortable" or "extremely comfortable."
In the age group of 36 to 45, a significant majority of 68.8% of participants expressed neutrality towards code-switching, while 18.8% felt uncomfortable and 12.5% felt comfortable However, in the older demographic of over 45, 45% reported feeling uncomfortable with code-switching, with 20% indicating they felt extremely uncomfortable Only 30% remained neutral, and a mere 5% felt comfortable, with no participants reporting extreme comfort with the practice.
Most age groups exhibit a neutral attitude towards code-switching, with the exception of individuals aged 45 and older Among those aged 18-25, a greater number express a positive attitude towards code-switching compared to those with a negative view In contrast, the other three age groups report a higher prevalence of discomfort regarding code-switching Notably, individuals over 45 demonstrate significantly higher levels of discomfort, far exceeding those who feel comfortable with the practice.
Research indicates that individuals aged 18 to 25 generally have a positive attitude towards code-switching, while those over 45 often feel uncomfortable with it This suggests that comfort with code-switching decreases with age; younger individuals are more accepting and open to its use.
4.4.3 The relationship between English proficiency and attitude towards code- switching
Table 4.2: The relationship between English proficiency and attitude towards code-switching
English proficiency significantly influences attitudes toward code-switching, as demonstrated in Table 3, which illustrates the correlation between respondents' English skills and their varying perspectives on the practice.
Respondents with no knowledge of English expressed discomfort with code-switching, primarily because they struggled to understand the language being used Additionally, concerns were raised about the misuse of code-switching and its application in inappropriate contexts.
For the group of people who self-assessed their English level at "Elementary" and
In a study on code-switching attitudes, 50% of participants at the pre-intermediate English level maintained a neutral stance Among those with an elementary English proficiency, 30% expressed discomfort with code-switching, nearly double the 16.3% who felt at ease Conversely, individuals at the pre-intermediate level exhibited a balanced distribution, with similar percentages of comfort and discomfort regarding code-switching.
Individuals with stronger English proficiency showed a significantly more positive response to code-switching compared to other groups Nonetheless, two-thirds of these individuals maintained a neutral stance, while one-third expressed comfort in utilizing code-switching.
The analysis reveals that individuals with no knowledge of English struggle to empathize and may feel uncomfortable in the presence of English speakers In contrast, those with higher proficiency levels tend to exhibit a more positive attitude towards English communication, aligning with the findings of Gardner and Chloros.
(2009), this research has the same conclusion, which suggest that the ability to switch between languages in conversational interaction requires high linguistic knowledge as well as sociolinguistic sensitivities
4.4.4 The relationship between working environment and attitude towards code- switching`
A recent survey revealed that an overwhelming 95.6% of participants reported experiencing code-switching among their colleagues at least once, while only 4.4% indicated that they had not observed anyone using code-switching in their environment.
A significant 71.4% of individuals in group 2 are over the age of 45, with 85.7% possessing only an elementary level of English proficiency, while 14.3% have no knowledge of the language In most workplaces, code-switching is prevalent, indicating that colleagues' use of this practice does not influence overall attitudes towards it.
However, people working in bilingual environment has showed to have different attitude towards code-switching, comparing to people working in monolingual environment The survey recorded the following results:
Have to communicate with foreigners at workplace
Do not have to communicate with foreigners at workplace
Table 4.3: The relationship between working environment and attitude towards code-switching
The impacts of code-switching at workplaces
4.5.1 Positive impacts of using code-switching at workplaces
This section addresses a key question in the research regarding the impacts of code-switching in the workplace The accompanying chart illustrates the positive effects of code-switching at work, highlighting three prevalent benefits based on the data presented.
Make some words easier to understand, make the working environment becomes more professional and improve work quality
Figure 4.9: Positive impacts of using code-switching at workplaces
It is noticeable that 70.6% of participants believed code-switching makes some words easier to understand at work Hao – an interviewee expressed: “In the past,
Initially, I had a strong dislike for code-switching, but my work environment influenced me to adopt it My colleagues and I often communicate in English for specialized terms, and I soon found myself struggling to recall the Vietnamese equivalents It may sound strange, but I frequently rely on Google Translate to find the right words in my native language.
Make some words easier to understand
Make the working environment becomes more professional Could learn more English vocabulary
English into Vietnamese” Another interviewee, Duong also agreed with Hao’s point of view
The importance of creating a more professional working environment and enhancing work quality is underscored by interviewee Chi, who emphasizes the significance of code-switching While acknowledging its value, Chi points out that the recent misuse of code-switching has led to negative perceptions, particularly concerning terms like "mail."
The terms "laptop" and "marketing" are frequently utilized in professional settings, and translating them into Vietnamese can sometimes lead to confusion Code-switching enhances work quality and fosters a more professional environment Survey results indicate that this perspective is widely shared among professionals.
A significant 42.5% of respondents indicated that code-switching could enhance their English vocabulary, highlighting its positive impact in the workplace This suggests that code-switching may serve as an effective tool for learning English.
4.5.2 Negative impacts of using code-switching at workplaces
Other Have no negative impacts Make the working environment becomes less professional
Decrease work quality Cause misunderstandings among colleagues
Figure 4.10: Negative impacts of using code-switching at the workplaces
A significant 85.6% of survey participants reported feeling uncomfortable with colleagues as the most negative impact of code-switching in the workplace Additionally, nearly equal percentages noted that it contributes to a less professional working environment, decreases work quality, and causes misunderstandings among colleagues Only 5.6% of respondents indicated that code-switching had no negative effects.
Many participants express discomfort with colleagues who misuse code-switching, as detailed in section 4.4.1 This discomfort arises when code-switching is employed in inappropriate contexts or when simpler Vietnamese terms would suffice Additionally, differing levels of English proficiency can lead to misunderstandings among colleagues Interviewee Duong noted that while code-switching can facilitate workplace communication, its abuse often comes across as pretentious, making others feel uncomfortable Similarly, Chi acknowledged the importance of code-switching but criticized its recent misuse, which has led to negative perceptions.
4.5.3 The relationship between context and impact of code-switching at workplaces
The questionnaire results reveal a divided perspective among participants regarding code-switching's impact on the workplace While many identified a positive effect, noting that it contributes to a more professional working environment, others pointed out a negative consequence, suggesting it can lead to a less professional atmosphere This duality underscores the fact that the effects of code-switching are context-dependent.
37 contexts The following table shows the relationship between context and impact of code-switching at workplaces:
Figure 4.11: The relationship between context and the impact of code-switching at workplaces
A significant 94.4% of participants view code-switching during casual conversations with colleagues as a normal practice This high percentage is expected, as informal discussions do not reflect the speaker's professionalism The impact of code-switching in these interactions is influenced more by the intent behind its use rather than the context in which it occurs.
A study comparing code-switching in private versus formal group meetings revealed distinct impacts In private meetings, participants were evenly split on whether code-switching was professional or unprofessional Conversely, in formal group settings and seminars, nearly 49% of participants perceived code-switching as unprofessional.
The survey dealt with the negatives that came with using code-switching when writing It was found that a majority of the participants agreed that using code-
In everyday conversations with colleagues
At seminars In administrative documents
In emails to private groups
In formal emails to partners
The relationship between context and impact of code-switching at workplace extremely professional professional neutral unprofessional extremely unprofessional
Switching languages when emailing partners or in administrative documents is viewed as unprofessional, with 63.8% of participants considering it extremely inappropriate While mixing English and Vietnamese in emails to private groups garnered less negative feedback, the majority still regarded this practice as neutral rather than professional.
The findings indicate that code-switching in writing tends to have more adverse effects compared to its use in speaking Moreover, code-switching proves to be most beneficial within small group settings However, when applied in larger groups, it is essential to thoughtfully assess the context and audience.
Solutions
Based on the above analysis and further reference in personal interviews, some of the suggestions below may answer the question: How to use code-switching effectively
4.6.1.Using code-switching with only appropriate people
The analysis in section 4.4 highlights the significant impact of age on attitudes towards code-switching For individuals over 45 years old, it is essential to minimize code-switching in both workplace and social settings Conversely, younger individuals may be more receptive to code-switching; however, they must consider their audience's proficiency in foreign languages As noted by interviewee Anh, effective communication relies on mutual understanding, and if the listener cannot comprehend the speaker's words, the communication goal is not fulfilled Additionally, interviewee Chi emphasizes that code-switching should be avoided when interacting with new acquaintances or partners.
4.6.2.Using code-switching in the suitable context
In a recent interview, Chau shared that code-switching is simply a habit for him, and he sees no issue using it in a professional setting However, he believes it is unnecessary when at home or with family and friends Chau emphasized that his intention is not to convey anything negative but rather to adapt and maintain the purity of the Vietnamese language.
In a discussion about code-switching in professional settings, Mr Duong, an accountant at Hoang Le Vu company, highlighted the importance of context, stating that while it's acceptable to mix languages during conversations with colleagues, it should be avoided in formal documents like emails and administrative papers This perspective aligns with Chau's view that individuals prefer not to appear boastful when using multiple languages The insights from both interviewees emphasize the need for careful consideration of language use based on the situation, reinforcing the idea that appropriate communication is essential in maintaining professionalism.
Preserving the purity of the Vietnamese language is a collective responsibility, particularly for today's youth As our native tongue, it is essential for Vietnamese people to enrich and uphold the beauty and integrity of Vietnamese While embracing the positive aspects of foreign languages, such as the advantages of code-switching, we must ensure that the essence of our language remains intact.
Hao, a seller from PASS Education, suggests a solution for those who inadvertently misuse code-switching: when he realizes he's overusing English, he repeats or explains the English term in Vietnamese He believes that opting for English when Vietnamese has equivalent words makes him feel guilty.
SUMMARY, FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION
Summary
Code-switching is a natural and effective means of expressing thoughts in a bilingual context, where individuals effortlessly alternate between languages This research focuses on five different workplaces in Hanoi to explore the application of code-switching It begins with an introduction outlining the study's background, purpose, significance, schedule, and research questions Chapter two delves into existing literature on code-switching, providing essential background information The subsequent section details the data collection methods and research process, culminating in a thorough analysis of the data and the conclusions drawn from the findings.
The study explored the prevalence of code-switching in workplace communication and assessed the attitudes of employees from diverse backgrounds towards this practice It highlighted the significance of code-switching in professional settings and provided insights on how to utilize it effectively for enhanced communication.
Findings
The study's findings reveal that code-switching frequency varies by context, with participants utilizing it more in spoken communication than in writing Notably, all survey respondents engage in code-switching during everyday conversations with colleagues, and it is frequently employed when interacting with close acquaintances or peers within the same field.
Code-switching in the workplace serves several purposes, primarily when specific English words and idioms are more widely understood Participants often switch to English to engage with colleagues in the same field on particular topics, as this facilitates clearer communication and makes it easier to express their feelings.
41 in English and citing an English quote also reasons for switching from Vietnamese to English in one sentence
The study explored attitudes towards code-switching, revealing that these attitudes vary based on factors such as age, English proficiency, and social environment Younger participants tend to be more accepting of code-switching, while older individuals often feel less comfortable with it Those with little to no knowledge of English struggle to relate to code-switching, whereas individuals with advanced English skills generally exhibit a more positive attitude Additionally, participants reported a significantly more favorable view of code-switching in professional settings where they interact with foreigners.
The study explored the positive and negative impacts of code-switching in the workplace, revealing that its effects vary by context It found that code-switching during writing tends to have more negative consequences compared to speaking Additionally, the research indicated that code-switching is most beneficial in small group settings, while larger groups require careful consideration of the context and audience.
The findings from the questionnaire survey and interviews highlight the importance of using code-switching judiciously It is recommended that individuals engage in code-switching only with appropriate audiences and in suitable contexts to prevent misuse.
Conclusion 41 REFERENCES
In today's interconnected world, learning foreign languages is essential for effective integration into global society The increasing internationalization and expansion across borders have led to the rise of code-switching, highlighting the importance of multilingualism in fostering communication and understanding.
42 higher understand the trends of using code-switching in general and working environment in particular
Research indicates that code-switching has both positive and negative aspects While excessive code-switching may threaten the purity of the Vietnamese language, it serves as an effective communication tool in the workplace This practice is not only a key component of bilingual communication but also enhances the overall work experience Consequently, the motivations behind code-switching are influenced by various factors and should not be overlooked.
Effective code-switching relies on the audience, context, and intended message When used appropriately, it enhances communication, making interactions smoother and more comfortable.
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Appendix 1: Questionnaire survey: A survey of code-switching between Vietnamese and English at workplaces
You are invited to participate in a survey of code-switching between
A survey was conducted to investigate the frequency of code-switching between Vietnamese and English in workplace communication, as well as the attitudes of employees from various backgrounds towards this practice The findings highlight the significance of code-switching in enhancing workplace interactions and provide insights on how to utilize this linguistic strategy effectively for improved communication among diverse teams.
Your responses will be kept strictly confidential, with only the researcher having access to the questionnaires The research report will ensure that no individuals are identifiable in any manner.
Thank you for spending your time!
2 What field are you working in?
3 Have you ever used code-switching before?
Part 2: For people who have never used code-switching before (for people who chose “I have not” at question 3)
4 The statements below are suggested reasons why you have never used code-switching before You can choose more than one answer
Using Vietnamese is easy to understand for everyone
Feeling uncomfortable when using code-switching
Preserve the purity of Vietnamese
Part 3: For people who have used code-switching at least one time
5 The statements below are suggested reasons why you used code-switching before You can choose more than one answers
There are no equivalent words and idioms in Vietnamese
Some English words are commonly used
Do not want to be overheard
Talk to people in the same fields
Attract attention and impress others
Feeling easy to express feelings in English
Willing to improve English vocabulary
6 How often do you use code-switching in different communication situations at the workplaces below? Choose your best answers
Never Rarely Occasionally Often Frequently iii
In everyday conversations with colleagues
In emails to private groups
In formal emails to partners
7 Have you ever used one of the following group words when code- switching? You can choose more than 1 answer
Terms used in the offices (email, meeting, checking, etc.)
Specialized terms of Technology - Information (System, data, gateway, software, program, etc.)
Specialized terms of Export – Import (Contract, condition, term, carrier, export, etc.)
Specialized terms of Construction (Contract, condition, term, carrier, export, etc.)
Specialized terms of Banking (Bank, drawee, open account, etc.)
Specialized terms of Education (Homework, groupwork, assignment, classmate, course, certificate, etc.)
Part 4: The relationship between related factors and attitudes towards code- switching
8 How do you feel when someone use code-switching? iv
9 The statements below are suggested reasons of feeling uncomfortable towards code-switching You can choose more than one answer
Do not understand the words
The speaker abuses code-switching
Using code-switching while Vietnamese words are much easier to understand
Using code-switching in unsuitable situation
The speaker does not pronounce clearly
10 Self-assess your English proficiency?
11 Do you have to communicate with foreigners at workplaces?
12 At your workplace, have your colleagues ever used code-switching?
Part 5: The impacts of code-switching at workplaces
13 The statements below are suggested positive impacts of using code- switching at workplaces You can choose more than 1 answer
Could learn more English vocabularies
Make the working environment becomes more professional v
Make some words easier to understand
14 The statements below are suggested negative impacts of using code- switching at workplaces You can choose more than one answer
Make the working environment becomes less professional
15 How do you feel about the working manners using code-switching in the following cases?
In everyday conversations with colleagues
In emails to private groups vi
In formal emails to partners
Question 1: In what cases do you use code-switching at the workplace?
According to the questionnaire, I frequently engage in code-switching during conversations and meetings with colleagues This practice occurs because individuals with shared interests and job roles can easily comprehend code-switching, enhancing communication and collaboration.
Chau: I usually use code-switching, except for using in administrative documents
In short, I use it whenever I feel comfortable
Duong frequently engages in code-switching during conversations with colleagues, particularly when discussing work-related topics This practice arises from the need to convey specialized terms that are challenging to explain in Vietnamese, prompting the use of English for clarity and precision.
Hao: I think I have used code-switching frequently: In everyday conversations, at the seminars, at the meeting, etc Only in administrative parper which I have not used
Chi employs code-switching during private meetings and casual conversations with colleagues, but its usage is contingent upon the individuals involved It is advisable to avoid code-switching when communicating with partners or unfamiliar individuals met for the first time.
Question 2: What are your point of views on using code-switching at the workplace?
Anh believes that code-switching serves a vital role in communication He emphasizes that if the listener fails to comprehend what has been said, the fundamental goal of effective communication is not fulfilled.
Chau views code-switching as a habitual practice that is acceptable in professional settings, but feels it is unnecessary when interacting with family and friends at home His intention is not to show off, but rather to adapt and maintain the integrity of the Vietnamese language, ensuring that others do not perceive him as pretentious.
Duong believes that code-switching has both positive and negative aspects On the positive side, it facilitates smoother communication in the workplace Conversely, the negative aspect arises when individuals misuse code-switching to flaunt their English skills, creating discomfort and a sense of elitism This behavior contributes to Duong's unfavorable impression of such individuals.
Hao initially disliked code-switching but began to adopt it due to his work environment He and his colleagues often use English for specialized terms, leading him to find it difficult to recall Vietnamese equivalents This reliance on English has become so pronounced that he frequently resorts to Google Translate for translating specialized words back into Vietnamese.
Chi: I think code-switching is quite important! However, many people abusing it recently, so it is considered as a bad thing Especially, words like “mail”, “laptop”,
The term "marketing" can be challenging to convey in Vietnamese, leading to potential misunderstandings However, incorporating code-switching enhances the clarity of communication and elevates the professionalism of the work environment.
Question 3: Do you have any advice for using code-switching properly?
Code-switching can be a useful communication tool, but it should be used judiciously While it's common and not inherently negative, overusing it can lead to misunderstandings To effectively employ code-switching, it's essential to consider your audience and the context of the conversation Additionally, striving for proficiency in both Vietnamese and English can enhance your ability to navigate these situations successfully.