Code mixing in the field of tuition particularly in Economics and Biology classes in Kiribathgoda area

Abstract

Human language is the most effective medium of communication. Variations appear in the process of its development due to its mutability. Code mixing is an important concept in sociolinguistics and it is a highly discussed phenomenon in Sri Lankan speech. Moreover, code mixing is commonly used by bilingual speakers in different situations. Most of the Sinhala speakers mix Sinhala and English languages when communicating with others both intentionally and unintentionally. In fact, code mixing is the use of one language in another language, the mixing of two or more languages or language varieties in a speech. Many research studies on code mixing have been conducted in various fields such as fiction writing, broadcasting media, print media and advertising. However, no research has been conducted on code mixing in the field of tuition although it is prominently used in this field. Data for the study were collected through questionnaires and unstructured interviews which were conducted after analyzing them in order to gather in depth data. The sample included randomly selected group of teachers and students who are involved in the field of tuition particularly Biology and Economics in Kiribathgoda area. This study explores when and why code mixing is used in the field of tuition. In addition it investigates the advantages and disadvantages in using code mixing and its nature of occurrences.