Learning French in Multilingual Contexts: The Impact of Extracurricular Activities Among Students in Postsecondary Institutions in Ghana and Nigeria
Keywords:
Extracurricular activities,, Ghana, Nigeria, French as a foreign language, multilingualismAbstract
In anglophone multilingual countries like Ghana and Nigeria, extracurricular activities have long supported the learning of French. Activities such as French club, exposure to francophone culture, and excursions to cultural or historical sites allow learners to practise French beyond formal classroom hours. However, there is limited research on their influence in anglophone multilingual contexts. Drawing on language socialisation theory, which highlights language learning through social interaction and participation, this study examines how these activities influence the learning experiences of students studying French in public postsecondary institutions. Using a mixed-methods design, it combined an online questionnaire with semi-structured interviews. Data were collected from 401 survey respondents and 24 interview participants at postsecondary institutions that offer French in Ghana and Nigeria. Survey data were analysed descriptively, while interview data were analysed thematically. Findings show that regular participation in extracurricular activities improves students’ communicative competence and sustains engagement in French, although funding and organisational challenges continue to limit full participation. This study contributes to understanding how extracurricular activities support French learning in multilingual Anglophone countries.
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