Contagious French: How Peer Role Models and Classroom Practices Shape Linguistic Confidence in French Immersion
Researchers: Olushola Adedeji and Michael Akinpelu
Project Description:
Studies have shown that some French Immersion students confidently use French and naturally motivate others to do the same. Their enthusiasm makes French feel safe, enjoyable, and worthwhile. Other students, however, feel less confident and participate less. This project explores what makes French “contagious” in classrooms by looking at how peer role models, classroom culture, and everyday teaching practices support students in using French with greater confidence.
The study will take place in selected Grades 3–12 French Immersion classrooms in Regina. Students will be asked to share short reflections about their experiences, offer insights on how their peers encourage them to speak French, and teachers will be asked to note simple classroom practices that support language use. Together, this information will help show how confidence in French grows through relationships, encouragement, and supportive routines rather than relying only on correction or strict language rules.
The project will result in developing a practical “Contagious French Toolkit” with simple strategies, templates, and examples that teachers can use to help students feel more confident speaking French and to support positive peer influence in their classrooms. Additionally, the findings will be shared with educators and used to strengthen French Immersion teaching and learning in Regina, across Saskatchewan, and in broader Canadian French Immersion contexts.