Translanguaging and Family Language Policy: An Investigation of Korean Short-Term Stayers’ Language Practice at Home

Abstract

This study explores how Korean short-term stayers in the U.S. manage their language practices at home. We focus on the newly formed families who came to the U.S. for a parent’s education or a new job. Drawing on the data from self-recorded family interactions, researchers’ ethnographic observation, and interviews with the parents, this study analyzes translanguaging use among Korean families. The qualitative analysis draws attention to the translanguaging patterns, family members’ roles in translanguaging practices, and changes of language use over time. The findings indicate that families’ interactions created a translanguaging space at home for (1) strategically rehearsing children’s language use; (2) adopting and negotiating family language policy (FLP) reflecting language use contexts; and (3) collaborative and creative language practices. This study suggests the importance of understanding temporary immigrants’ language use and attitude towards bilingualism.