In between the Tide of Bilingualism and the Ebb of Identity (Re) construction in Algeria.

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between bilingualism and identity along with the effects of studying a foreign language on one’s behaviour and lifestyles. It discussed also the possibilities of changing one’s cultural values and social belonging when becoming bilinguals among foreign languages teachers at Ibn Khaldoun Universsity of Tiaret. This work aimed also at demonstrating whether participants’ identities are influenced once learning a new language. Our data was obtained through using the quantitative approach i.e. questionnaire made up of closed ended questions divided into six sections as well as the qualitative one via observing the behaviour of the members of our community of practice. The selected sample of this investigation was composed of thirty participants but only twenty-seven have participated. The overall of our results seem, to a very large extent, to confirm our hypotheses since the findings of our research validate, that learning another language besides your mother tongue plays a crucial role in (Re) constructing one’s identity and gaining a certain social position among their society. Moreover; according to our participants, being bilingual serves in developing some important identity components, such as religion, cultural beliefs and values, traditions and lifestyles, rather than it destructs them. It is also proved by our respondents that monolinguals are different from bilinguals in many aspects. However, the participants disprove one of our hypotheses which suggested that once learning a foreign language, the identity and the social belonging are denied but it is rather justified by that it is a means to recognize who they are and it enables them to be ambassadors of their cultures. Finally, despite the fact that bilingualism does not deny one’s identity and social belonging, it leads to the change of some important elements that identify who we are and where we come from.