An Examination of Code Switching in Nigerian Social Media Communication: A Comparative Analysis of Facebook and WhatsApp
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Background of the Study
Code‑switching—the practice of alternating between languages within a conversation—is a ubiquitous feature of Nigerian social media communication. Platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp provide contrasting contexts for this phenomenon. On WhatsApp, code‑switching often occurs in private, informal exchanges, reflecting the fluid bilingual practices of everyday conversation. Conversely, Facebook, with its more public and varied audience, exhibits code‑switching patterns that are influenced by factors such as audience design and context-specific formality (Uzo, 2023). This study examines the similarities and differences in code‑switching between these platforms, investigating how users navigate linguistic boundaries to convey identity, humor, and social solidarity. By comparing these contexts, the research aims to elucidate the socio-cultural and technological factors that drive code‑switching in Nigerian digital communication. The study integrates theories of bilingualism and digital communication to provide a comprehensive analysis of language alternation practices and their implications for identity construction in online environments (Ibrahim, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
While code‑switching is widely documented in Nigerian digital communication, comparative studies focusing on its manifestation across different platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp are scarce. Existing research tends to analyze code‑switching in isolation within one platform, thereby neglecting how platform affordances and audience expectations influence language alternation. This gap limits our understanding of the dynamic interplay between digital media and bilingual practices. This study seeks to address this gap by conducting a comparative analysis of code‑switching in Nigerian social media communication, thereby shedding light on the factors that shape these linguistic practices (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
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To compare code‑switching patterns on Facebook and WhatsApp.
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To identify factors influencing code‑switching on each platform.
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To assess the implications of code‑switching for digital identity.
Research Questions:
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What are the differences in code‑switching between Facebook and WhatsApp?
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What factors drive these differences?
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How does code‑switching impact online identity in Nigeria?
Significance of the Study
This study provides valuable insights into bilingual communication in Nigerian digital spaces. Its comparative approach informs educators and communication strategists about how code‑switching varies with context, thereby contributing to more effective digital language policies (Uzo, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to the topic only.
Definitions of Terms:
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Code‑Switching: Alternating between languages in a conversation.
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Facebook: A public social media platform.
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WhatsApp: A private messaging application.
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