RUAHA CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY

The study examined teachers’ perceptions regarding the use of the English language as a medium of instruction for teaching and learning in public secondary schools in Iringa Municipality. A total of 51 teachers were selected from the three schools involved. The study employed a qualitative approach and a case study design. Data were gathered through questionnaires and interviews, and they were analysed by content analysis. The study results revealed diverse opinions among teachers concerning the use of English as the medium of instruction. Some teachers approved the use of English, while others advocated for Kiswahili as the primary medium of instruction, with English taught as a separate subject alongside others. Additionally, there were teachers who held a negative view of English as the medium of instruction, by associating it with teacher’s proficiency, and insufficiencies in utilizing English as the language of instruction, just to name a few. Therefore, it is recommended that the Tanzania Institute of Education consider restructuring the language syllabus for secondary education to incorporate a dedicated component on Teaching English Language to Non-Speakers of the Language. Furthermore, efforts should be made towards the development of a national language policy.

Language Policy, Medium of instruction, Teachers‟ Perception