Presentation Schedule
Learners’ Perspectives on Using Setswana as L1 in Mandarin Chinese Instruction: A Case Study at the University of Botswana (106188)
Session Chair: Selma Mehovic
Thursday, 18 June 2026 09:30
Session: Session 1
Room: Room FSI 125 (1F)
Presentation Type:Oral Presentation
Mandarin Chinese has been taught at the University of Botswana for several years, where English is the medium of instruction. Although students' L1, mainly Setswana, and Mandarin Chinese are linguistically distinct,they share several notable structural features. Despite this context, limited research has explored students’ perceptions of incorporating Setswana in Mandarin instruction. This qualitative study investigates learners’ perspectives on using Setswana as L1 in Mandarin courses, focusing on perceived advantages and challenges. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with twenty-two undergraduate students and analysed thematically. The findings reveal that using Setswana alongside English significantly enhances understanding and acquisition of Mandarin, particularly due to structural similarities between Setswana and Mandarin. Advantages include cognitive scaffolding that reduces cognitive load, facilitates comprehension of complex concepts, enhances classroom participation, and increases engagement by making lessons more interactive. At the same time, concerns emerged regarding pedagogical balance, as some students cautioned that excessive reliance on Setswana could limit exposure to Mandarin. Overall, the study highlights the importance of a balanced and strategic use of L1 in foreign language classrooms and offers practical implications for teaching strategies, curriculum design, and learner engagement in linguistically diverse higher education contexts.
Authors:
Duna M. Raletsatsi, University of Botswana, Botswana
About the Presenter(s)
Ms Duna Raletsatsi is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at University of Botswana in Botswana
See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule
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