Translanguaging as a Powerful Perspective for Addressing Diversity in Bi/Multilingual Contexts

Marisol Lage; Susan Ann Rangel Clemesha

doi:10.5433/2237-4876.2025v28n1p72-88

Authors

Marisol Lage Colégio Internacional Miguel de Cervantes
Susan Ann Rangel Clemesha Pontíficia Universidade Católica - SP https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1991-8511

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5433/2237-4876.2025v28n1p72-88

Keywords:

Translanguaging, Diversity, Interculturality

Abstract

This article explores translanguaging as both a conceptual lens and a pedagogical practice in bi/multilingual contexts, highlighting its role in fostering inclusivity and embracing student diversity. It also presents learning experiences shaped by this perspective. The study follows the methodology of Critical Collaborative Research (PCCol) and is theoretically grounded in translanguaging, diversity, and interculturality. With this foundation, it seeks to answer the question: Can translanguaging serve as a teaching and learning resource to address learner diversity in bi/multilingual contexts? The data, analyzed through this lens, suggest that translanguaging not only enhances learning but also serves as an effective approach for creating more inclusive and engaging educational environments. By challenging traditional language hierarchies, it encourages students to use their full linguistic repertoires, fostering deeper understanding and participation. These findings reinforce translanguaging as a meaningful approach to supporting diverse learners and expanding perspectives in multilingual education.

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Author Biographies

Marisol Lage, Colégio Internacional Miguel de Cervantes

Doutora em Linguística Aplicada e Estudos da Linguagem pelo LAEL/PUC-SP. É tutora do Diplomado DUA - UDL pelo CAST Professional Learning (MA, Estados Unidos) e Fellow do Grupo Latinoamérica - Diploma em Desenho Universal para a Aprendizagem. Integra o grupo de pesquisa LACE - Linguagem em Atividade no Contexto Escolar. São Paulo, Brasil.

Susan Ann Rangel Clemesha, Pontíficia Universidade Católica - SP

Academic Director of the Sphere International Schools Network, with a bachelor's degree in social communication from the University of São Paulo (USP) and a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo (PUC-SP). With over 20 years of experience in bilingual education, she leads the curriculum, teacher training, and materials development areas for Sphere schools. She is a member of the International Baccalaureate Educator Network (IBEN), having participated in IB school evaluation visits in Brazil and the Americas. She has organized educational conferences in Brazil, addressing topics that include: teaching for understanding; inquiry-based learning; making thinking visible; pedagogical differentiation and teaching for diversity. She is a member of the Language in Activities in the School Context (LACE) research group, linked to PUC-SP, and works as a collaborating professor in extension and postgraduate courses in Bilingual Education.

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