Language USE in a bilingual tertiary science classroom

This research project investigates linguistic conventions of oral interaction in Science courses, the second semester of the school year 2016–2017, at the Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences. In particular, the project seeks to study the practice of language switching among Filipino tertiary-level teachers and students. Courses in Science are expected to be delivered in English. However, there is widespread perception that Filipino teachers and students freely language switch. This analysis of language-switching in Science courses at Benguet State University Department of Biology and Chemistry hopes to determine if the practice is beneficial or detrimental to Science education. In conclusion, the science teachers are employing language switching in promoting shared meaning, checking student understanding, maintaining the teaching narrative and fostering unity and solidarity during the classroom exchanges. Furthermore, teachers teaching science courses should be allowed to language switch for effective communication. This can be a springboard for the innovations to be done in their teaching techniques in imparting knowledge, setting up good teaching-learning atmosphere and stirring noble teacher-learner relationship. School administrators should give attention to the communicative language teaching methodology and strategies as important elements in teaching.