Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis delves into the intricate phenomenon of code-switching and its influence on language comprehension among bilingual speakers. Code-switching, the practice of alternating between two or more languages in a single conversation, has long intrigued researchers and language enthusiasts alike. The objective of this study is to explore how code-switching affects the comprehension abilities of bilingual individuals, shedding light on the cognitive processes involved in language switching. Chapter One sets the stage by introducing the research topic, providing a background of the study, articulating the problem statement, outlining the objectives, discussing the limitations and scope of the study, emphasizing its significance, and defining key terms. The chapter concludes with a structural overview of the thesis. Chapter Two conducts a comprehensive literature review, examining existing studies on code-switching, bilingualism, language comprehension, and cognitive processes related to language use. The review encompasses theoretical frameworks, research methodologies, key findings, and gaps in the current body of knowledge. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, participant selection criteria, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations. The chapter delves into the intricacies of conducting empirical research on code-switching and language comprehension. Chapter Four presents an in-depth discussion of the findings derived from the empirical research. The analysis explores the impact of code-switching on language comprehension, highlighting patterns, challenges, and cognitive mechanisms at play. The chapter also addresses implications for language acquisition, cognitive processing, and bilingual education. Chapter Five offers a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the thesis, synthesizing key findings, discussing implications for theory and practice, suggesting areas for future research, and reflecting on the broader implications of the study. The chapter underscores the significance of understanding code-switching in bilingual contexts and its implications for language comprehension. Overall, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on code-switching and bilingualism by offering a nuanced exploration of how language switching influences comprehension processes among bilingual speakers. The findings provide valuable insights into the cognitive dynamics of bilingual language use and offer practical implications for educators, researchers, and language enthusiasts.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Exploring the impact of code-switching on language comprehension in bilingual speakers" aims to investigate the effects of code-switching on language comprehension among individuals who are bilingual. Code-switching is a linguistic phenomenon where speakers alternately use two or more languages or dialects within a single conversation or interaction. It is a common practice among bilingual individuals and is influenced by various factors such as cultural background, social context, and language proficiency. The project seeks to address the following key aspects: 1. **Introduction**: The project will begin with an introduction to the concept of code-switching and its prevalence among bilingual speakers. It will provide a brief overview of the research objectives and the significance of the study. 2. **Background of Study**: This section will delve into existing literature on code-switching, language comprehension, and bilingualism. It will review relevant studies and theories that have explored the relationship between code-switching and language processing. 3. **Problem Statement**: The project will identify the gaps in current research related to the impact of code-switching on language comprehension, highlighting the need for further investigation in this area. 4. **Objective of Study**: The primary objective of the research is to examine how code-switching influences language comprehension in bilingual speakers. It aims to identify the cognitive mechanisms involved in processing code-switched utterances and how they differ from monolingual language processing. 5. **Limitation of Study**: The project will acknowledge any constraints or limitations that may impact the research findings, such as sample size, availability of resources, or methodological constraints. 6. **Scope of Study**: The study will focus on bilingual speakers proficient in two or more languages and will explore the impact of code-switching in various contexts, including casual conversations, formal settings, and professional environments. 7. **Significance of Study**: This research aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on code-switching and language comprehension by providing insights into how bilingual speakers navigate between languages and understand mixed language input. 8. **Structure of the Thesis**: The project will be structured into chapters that include an introduction, literature review, research methodology, discussion of findings, and conclusion. Each chapter will explore different aspects of the research topic in depth. 9. **Definition of Terms**: Key terms related to code-switching, language comprehension, and bilingualism will be defined to provide clarity and understanding for readers. Overall, this research project seeks to enhance our understanding of the cognitive processes involved in code-switching and its impact on language comprehension among bilingual speakers. By investigating this linguistic phenomenon, the study aims to shed light on how individuals navigate between languages and make sense of mixed language input in communication contexts.