Teachers' translanguaging practices and anxiety in implementation: An exploration of Iranian EFL teachers’ attitudes and perceptions
Date
2025
Authors
Ghashghaie Nezhad, Pegah
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This mixed-methods study explores Iranian English-as-a-Foreign-Language (EFL) teachers' attitudes toward translanguaging, their classroom practices, and their perceived anxiety, using an integrated analysis of questionnaire data (N = 98) and in-depth interviews (n = 10). Quantitative findings revealed that teachers strategically endorsed use of first language (L1) for specific purposes, with 77.6% supporting it to assist low-proficiency students and 56.1% recognizing its role in building rapport. A notable attitude-practice gap emerged, as reported classroom use of translanguaging (M = 23.53, SD = 6.65) exceeded attitudinal acceptance of it (M = 18.46, SD = 3.78). Qualitative analysis further illuminated four key dimensions: L1's cognitive utility for explaining complex grammar; its affective benefits in reducing anxiety; challenges posed by institutional English-only constraints; and teachers’ professional anxiety regarding perceptions of linguistic deficiency. Correlation analyses revealed that while teachers' general attitudes were moderately associated with acceptance of student L1 use (r = .32, p < .05), stronger relationships existed between self-perceived language proficiency and practical challenges such as time management difficulties (r = .67, p < .05). The study advocates professional development and policy reform for support contextually grounded translanguaging practices. Overall, the findings show that translanguaging must be locally grounded, calling for pedagogical reforms that reflect teachers’ lived realities, institutional pressures, and broader ideological environments.
Description
Keywords
Translanguaging, EFL Teachers, Anxiety