Breaking Language Barriers: Swedish Upper Secondary Teachers' Attitudes Towards and Use of Swedish in the EFL Classroom

Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate Swedish upper secondary English teachers’ attitudes towards and use of Swedish in the EFL classroom. In addition to examining teachers’ attitudes, the study investigated when teachers feel it is beneficial to use Swedish and why in these specific situations. Five upper secondary English teachers participated in the study. The study was conducted by observing two English lessons per teacher, followed by qualitative semi-structured interviews. The result of this study shows that teachers have a generally accepting, but not necessarily positive, attitude towards the use of Swedish in the EFL classroom. There are several instances where they believe Swedish is beneficial, such as when teaching grammar, translating difficult words, giving feedback, and bonding with and disciplining students. However, most teachers feel that it is crucial to limit the use of Swedish as it can have a negative effect on the students’ language learning. During the observations, the teachers mainly used English. The observation and following interviews showed that teachers may not always be aware of what language they are speaking and might speak Swedish, even if they afterwards perceive the situation as having been handled in English.