Language Choice Among University Students in a Multilingual Society

A Study at Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai

Abstract

Language choice reflects how speakers select languages based on social contexts. At Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai, students regularly use Indonesian, Ocu, and English. This descriptive qualitative study examines students' language choices and influencing factors. Data were collected from ten students via Google Forms and analyzed through data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. Results indicate Indonesian dominates formal academic contexts like lectures and classroom discussions. Ocu is primarily used in informal settings among Kampar students to maintain cultural identity and social ties. English appears mainly during language classes, presentations, and technical terminology use. Key influencing factors include interlocutors, settings, purpose, and cultural background. In conclusion, students show communicative flexibility by adapting their language use to specific contexts, illustrating dynamic multilingual interactions that balance effective academic communication with cultural preservation.