Power dynamics and forms of address in Algerian and Russian academic discourses

This study examines the forms of address employed by teachers in Algeria and Russia, focusing on their cultural significance, student preferences, and the underlying power dynamics in educational settings. Drawing on sociolinguistic and pragmatic frameworks, the research investigates how teachers and students navigate authority, respect, and social hierarchy through language use. The study includes 143 participants from Algeria and Russia, encompassing teachers and students across various educational levels, allowing for a comparative analysis of cultural and contextual influences on classroom discourse. Data collected from classroom interactions reveals the significance of address forms—such as titles, pronouns, and honorifics–in constructing and negotiating power relationships. The findings highlight the dual role of politeness strategies: maintaining hierarchical structures while fostering a collaborative learning environment. It has been noticed that Algerian teachers predominantly use first names, last names, honorifics, and kinship terms, reflecting the societal emphasis on familial bonds and respect. Conversely, Russian teachers utilize first names, first names combined with patronymics, last names, and endearment terms, embodying a blend of formal respect and nurturing communication. However, the students' preference for informal address forms reveals a shift towards reducing power imbalances, promoting a more collaborative and inclusive classroom atmosphere. This paper contributes to understanding the sociocultural underpinnings of classroom discourse in multilingual and multicultural contexts, offering insights into the broader relationship between language, power, and education.