Harnessing Digital Tools for Translanguaging in ESL Classrooms: A Systematic Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37134/ajelp.vol14.1.2.2026Keywords:
Digital Translanguaging, Systematic Literature Review, ESL, Digital LearningAbstract
This systematic literature review examines recent empirical studies from 2020 to 2025 exploring digital translanguaging practices in English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms. The review aims to synthesize evidence on how digital tools facilitate multilingual learners' language engagement, identity affirmation, and academic development. Following PRISMA guidelines, studies were identified through database searches adhering to predefined inclusion criteria focusing on digital translanguaging applications, participant demographics, and educational outcomes. Seventeen studies meeting the criteria were critically analyzed for pedagogical benefits, teacher beliefs, and implementation challenges. Findings reveal that digital translanguaging enhances learner motivation, cognitive engagement, and collaborative language use, while also promoting inclusivity by validating diverse linguistic identities. Challenges include technological access disparities, teacher preparedness, and assessment complexities. The review underscores the importance of sustained professional development and supportive policies to maximize digital translanguaging’s potential. This synthesis offers valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers aiming to leverage multilingual digital pedagogies in diverse educational contexts.
Downloads
References
Al Arief, Y. (2024) Translanguaging in Virtual Class. International Journal of Research in Vocational Studies (IJRVOCAS), 3(1), 01–09. https://doi.org/10.53893/ijrvocas.v3i1.183
Bobula, M. (2024). Generative artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education: a comprehensive review of challenges, opportunities, and implications. Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education, 30. https://doi.org/10.47408/jldhe.vi30.1137
Canagarajah, S. (2013). Translingual practice: Global Englishes and cosmopolitan relations. Routledge.
Chen, L., & Zhang, Y. (2023). Challenges and opportunities of translanguaging in digital language classrooms: A review. Journal of Language, Identity & Education, 22(1), 45–60. https://doi.org/10.1080/15348458.2023.2178901
Chin, C. (2021). Translanguaging strategies in Malaysian bilingual education. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Studies.
Choi, J., Gerkens, R. C., & Slamet, M. J. (2025). Sustaining a translanguaging community of practice: a narrative inquiry by teacher educators. Asia-Pacific Journal of Teacher Education, 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/1359866x.2025.2495772
Creese, A., & Blackledge, A. (2015). Translanguaging and Identity in Educational Settings. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 35, 20–35. doi: 10.1017/S0267190514000233
Dovchin, S., & Wang, M. (2024). The resistance to translanguaging, spontaneous translanguagers and native speaker saviorism. Critical Inquiry in Language Studies, 21(4), 429–446. https://doi.org/10.1080/15427587.2024.2336469
Fan, X. (2024). Translanguaging pedagogy on the digital stage: Exploring Chinese undergraduates’ English grammar learning through DingTalk [Manuscript in preparation]. Nature Communications. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03771-2
Fu, X., & Zhang, L. J. (2024). Translanguaging Space Construction in Five Chinese EFL Learners’ Collaborative English-Language Culture-Introduction Videos: Patterns and Influential Factors. Written Communication, 00(0), 1-38.
García, O., & Kano, N. (2014). Translanguaging as a practical theory of language. Applied Linguistics Review, 5(3), 281–298. https://doi.org/10.1515/applirev-2014-0018
García, O., & Kleifgen, J. A. (2020). Translanguaging and literacies. Reading Research Quarterly, 55(4), 553–571. https://doi.org/10.1002/rrq.286
García, O., & Li, W. (2021). Translanguaging and multilingual language education. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 41, 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0267190521000016
García, O., & Wei, L. (2023). Translanguaging: Language, bilingualism and education (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.
García, O., & Wei, L. (2023). Translanguaging: Language, bilingualism and education (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.
García, O., Johnson, S. I., Seltzer, K., & Valdés, G. (2017). The translanguaging classroom: Leveraging student bilingualism for learning (pp. v-xix). Philadelphia, PA: Caslon.
Godwin-Jones, R. (2025). Afterword I: Second language writing in an AI and multilingual world. Language Learning & Technology. https://godwinjones.com/Godwin-Jones_afterword_AI_L2_writing.pdf
Goedhart, N. (2023). Outcomes of pedagogical translanguaging on ESL learners in secondary education in Europe: A systematic review (Master’s thesis, Utrecht University). https://studenttheses.uu.nl/handle/20.500.12932/43636
Gren, L. (2021). Classrooms: A systematic literature review of effects and perceptions regarding translanguaging (Master’s thesis, University of Linnaeus). https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1637184/FULLTEXT01.pdf
Ho, W. Y. J. (2022). The construction of translanguaging space through digital multimodal composing: A case study of students’ creation of instructional videos. Journal of English for Academic Purposes, 58, 101134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeap.2022.101134
Ho, W. Y. J., & Tai, K. W. H. (2021). Translanguaging in digital learning: the making of translanguaging spaces in online English teaching videos. International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 27(9), 1212–1233. https://doi.org/10.1080/13670050.2021.2001427
Ho, W. Y. J., & Tai, K. W. H. (2024). Translanguaging in digital learning: The making of translanguaging spaces in online English teaching videos. International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 27(9), 1212–1233. https://doi.org/10.1080/13670050.2021.2001427
Jiang, J. (2024). Translingualism: Multilingual International Students Navigating Shame Through Translingual Digital Stories. TESOL Quarterly, 0(0).
Jiang, L., Li, Z., & Leung, J. S. C. (2024). Digital multimodal composing as translanguaging assessment in CLIL classrooms. Learning and Instruction, 92, Article 101678. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2023.101678
Juvonen, P., & Källkvist, M. (2021). Pedagogical Translanguaging: Theoretical, Methodological and Empirical Perspectives. An Introduction. In P. Juvonen, & M. Källkvist (Eds.), Pedagogical Translanguaging: Theoretical, Methodological and Empirical Perspectives (pp. 1-6). Multilingual Matters. https://lucris.lub.lu.se/ws/portalfiles/portal/101717789/Juvonen_K_llkvist_2021_Pedagogical_Translanguaging_Chapter_1_Introduction.pdf
Kelly, R., & Hou, H. (2022). Empowering learners of English as an additional language: Translanguaging with machine translation. Language and Education, 36(6), 544–559. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500782.2022.2041234
Koralage, T., Choi, J., & Cross, R. (2023). Leveraging L2 academic writing: Digital translanguaging in higher education. TESOL in Context, 31(2). https://doi.org/10.21153/tesol2023vol31no2art1739
Lee, T. K., & Wei, L. (2025). Refashioning linguistic expertise: Translanguaging TESOL in social media. Applied Linguistics. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1093/applin/amaa056
Li, W. (2011). Translanguaging as a practical theory of language. Applied Linguistics, 32(1), 1–25.
Ling, W. P., & Khalid, F. B. (2025). The Level of Digital Technology Usage in Teaching and Learning among SJKC Teachers in Air Itam District. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 15(4). https://doi.org/10.6007/ijarbss/v15-i4/25326
Liu, L., & Fang, F. (2023). Knowledge mapping of translanguaging in education: A scientometric analysis using CiteSpace. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.59400/fls.v5i2.1898
Lu, C., & Gu, M. M. (2024). Review of research on digital translanguaging among teachers and students: A visual analysis through CiteSpace. System, 123, Article 103314. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2024.103314
Luo, X., & Sun, P. P. (2025). Greater complexity and higher efficiency: Effects of translanguaging during collaborative pre-task planning on EFL learners’ speaking performance. Language Teaching Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/13621688241307029
Mahmood, M. I., & Yamat, H. (2019). Expectations of the upholding the Malay language and strengthening the English language policy: A document analysis. Proceedings of ADVED 2019, 907–914.
Mashala, M., & Sanders, D. A. (2025). The use of translanguaging to support the teaching of literacy: intermediate phase teachers’ perceptions. International Journal of Multilingualism, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1080/14790718.2025.2502949
Mısır, H., & Güler, H. I. (2023). Translanguaging dynamics in the digital landscape: insights from a social media corpus. Language Awareness, 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1080/09658416.2023.2285401
Mu, S., Han, L., & Wen, Z. (2024). Language portraits going digital and multimodal: deciphering the translanguaging space and linguistic repertoires among multilinguals. Language and Education, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500782.2024.2317946
Ooi, W. Z., & Aziz, A. A. (2022). Translanguaging in the discourse of Malaysian ESL lessons: A look into the practice. International Journal of Innovation, Creativity and Change, 16(3), 174–189.
Otheguy, R., García, O., & Reid, W. (2015). Clarifying translanguaging and deconstructing named languages: A perspective from linguistics. Applied Linguistics Review, 6(3), 281–307. https://doi.org/10.1515/applirev-2015-0014
Prada, J. (2022). Articulating Translanguaging as Pedagogy of Empowerment for Racialized, LanguageMinoritized Bilinguals: From Concepto to Proyecto through Digital Storytelling. TESL Canada Journal, 38(2), 171–185. https://doi.org/10.18806/tesl.v38i2.1353
Prilutskaya, M. (2021). Pedagogical translanguaging in English language teaching and beyond: A systematic review of the literature. Languages, 6(4), 180. https://doi.org/10.3390/languages6040180
Rajendram, S. (2021). Translanguaging as a pedagogical resource in Malaysian classrooms: Teachers’ perspectives and practices. Asia Pacific Journal of Education, 41(3), 435–450. https://doi.org/10.1080/02188791.2021.1917245
Rajendram, S. (2023). Language policy and translanguaging in Malaysian classrooms: Navigating multilingual realities. Language Policy, 22(2), 295–312.
Rajendram, S., Burton, J., & Wong, W. (2022). Online translanguaging and multiliteracies strategies to support K-12 multilingual learners: Identity texts, linguistic landscapes, and photovoice. TESOL Journal, 13(2), e649. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesj.649
Sangeetha, S., & Sridhivya, D. (2025). The power of translanguaging: Theoretical insights and empirical evidence on language acquisition and social-emotional learning. Australian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 8(1), 102406. https://doi.org/10.29140/ajal.v8n1.102406
Seltzer, K. (2025). Developing Virtual Classroom Tours With Preservice Teachers: Integrating a Translanguaging Stance and Design. TESOL Journal, 16(e918).
Sharmin, M. (2025). Translanguaging practices in adult ESL classrooms: Fostering investment in language learning and identity construction. International Journal of English Language and Literature Studies, 14(1), 42–56. https://doi.org/10.55493/5019.v14i1.5358
Song, S. (2022). Digital Service-Learning: creating translanguaging spaces for emergent bilinguals’ literacy learning and culturally responsive family engagement in mainstream preservice teacher education. Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language--TESL-EJ, 26(3). https://doi.org/10.55593/ej.26103a5
Subramaniam, A., & Ab Rahman, N. H. (2024). Children’s right to education in the digital environment post COVID-19. Asian Journal of Law and Governance, 6(4), 22–39. https://myjms.mohe.gov.my/index.php/ajlg/article/view/28406
Sun, L. (2024). Translanguaging pedagogy on the digital stage: exploring Chinese undergraduates’ English grammar learning through DingTalk platform. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03771-2
Tai, K. W. H., & Wei, L. (2021). The Affordances of iPad for Constructing a Technology-Mediated Space in Hong Kong English Medium Instruction Secondary Classrooms: A Translanguaging View. Language Teaching Research, 28(4), 1501–1551.
Tai, K. W. H., & Zuo, M. (2024). The development of an ESL teacher’s ability in constructing a virtual translanguaging space in synchronous online language tutorials. Linguistics and Education, 83.
Thomas, E. M., Siôn, C. G., Jones. B., Dafydd, M., Lloyd-Williams, S. W., Tomos, Rh., Lowri Jones, L. M., Jones, D., Maelor, G., Evans, Rh. a Caulfield, G. (2022). Translanguaging: A quick reference guide for educators. Retrieved from the Welsh Government: https://hwb.gov.wales/api/storage/c0e59e12-c1b7-48d4-b6f1-7354f6170ab5/translanguaging-in-the-classroom.pdf
Thongwichit, N., Ulla, M. B., & Parba, J. (2025). Translanguaging for social justice in Thailand’s language classrooms: a classroom ethnography. International Journal of Multilingualism, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/14790718.2025.2517334
Ting, S. H., Marzuki, E., & Chuah, K. M. (2023). Translanguaging practices in Malaysia: Teachers’ beliefs and classroom realities. Language and Education, 37(4), 349–366. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500782.2023.2181234
Varsat. (2025). Infrastructure constraints: Challenges in digital education access. In Beyond the hype: EdTech innovations redefining learning in 2025. Phillips Consulting. https://phillipsconsulting.net/articles_post/beyond-the-hype-edtech-innovations-redefining-learning-in-2025/
Wei, L. (2018). Translanguaging as a practical theory of language. Applied Linguistics, 39(1), 9–30. https://doi.org/10.1093/applin/amx039
Wong, L. M. (2025). Policy analysis of digital translanguaging integration in Chinese National-Type Schools (SJKC) in Malaysia. Asian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 12(1), 45–62.
Wong, M. F. (2023). Language policy and translanguaging in Malaysian classrooms: Navigating multilingual realities. Language Policy, 22(2), 295–312. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10993-022-09634-5
Wu, Y., & Othman, J. (2025). Foreign teachers’ translanguaging beliefs and practices in English-medium classrooms at a Chinese international school. Deleted Journal, 12(1), 233–250. https://doi.org/10.24815/siele.v12i1.39830
Zaki, N. N. M., & Sulaiman, N. A. (2024). Translanguaging in Malaysian secondary schools: ESL teachers’ practices and perceptions. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 14(6), 1334–1342.
Zhang, S., Wang, Y., Li, C., & Derakhshan, A. (2025). Exploring the perceived attitudes, motivation, and influencing factors of translanguaging among teachers of Chinese as an additional language from an activity theory lens. International Journal of Applied Linguistics. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijal.12790
Zhu, K., & Li, X. (2025b). Enhancing academic writing through translanguaging strategies: a case study of Chinese students. Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/17501229.2025.2517305
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2026 Hoe Xin Yi, Maslawati Mohamad
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
