Exploring Code-Switching in an Algerian Pilgrimage and Umrah Guide Training Course

Abstract

Abstract: This study investigates language dynamics within a Pilgrimage and Umrah guide training course in Algeria, focusing on the phenomenon of code-switching that embraces a number of linguistic mediums used in the speech of an Algerian instructor while delivering his course to his guide trainees. Moreover, based on Appel and Muysken's (2006) and Gumperz's (1982) functions of code-switching, it seeks to unveil the reasons and motivations standing behind this phenomenon. Thus, by means of analysing the available training course videos retrieved from YouTube channel, data reveal some of the types of code-switching (CS) mainly intra-sentential, inter sentential, and extra sentential. The frequency of these types varies depending on the varieties subject to alternation. Cases of diglossic switching (DS) between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Algerian Arabic (AA), as well as code-switching between either MSA and French (Fr) or AA and Fr were also attested. The results show an abundant number of DS at intra- sentential level marking a switch forth and back between both high and low varieties for a number of reasons such as communication ease, reiteration for clarification, emphasis, translation, humour sense, and accommodation to audience. Arabic- Fr CS is limited at intra- sentential level because both instructor and audience share the same linguistic background with the exclusion of Arabic-Fr inter sentential CS. Keywords: Diglossic switching; code-switching; modern Standard Arabic; Algerian Arabic; French