Code-Mixing as a Pedagogical Strategy to Improve Learners’ Understanding and Participation in English Speaking Classes at Gemma and Makka English Education Centre

English speaking ability is one of the essential skills that students need to develop in facing the demands of global communication. However, in the process of learning English speaking skills, students still encounter several difficulties, such as limited vocabulary, lack of confidence, and low participation in using English actively. Therefore, an effective learning strategy is needed to create an environment that helps students understand the materials and encourages their involvement in learning activities. One of the strategies that can be applied is code-mixing, which refers to the use of two languages alternately during the learning process to support students’ comprehension and communication skills. This study aims to investigate the implementation of code-mixing as a pedagogical strategy in English speaking instruction and to examine its role in improving students’ understanding and participation at Gemma and Makka English Education Centre. This research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. The data are collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving the head of the institution, peer tutors, and students as research participants. The data analysis technique uses the interactive model consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings of this study are expected The findings of this study reveal that the implementation of code-mixing as a pedagogical strategy in English speaking instruction at Gemma and Makka English Education Centre helps students understand learning materials more easily, increases their active participation in classroom activities, builds their confidence in using English, and improves their speaking and communication skills. The use of code-mixing between Indonesian and English creates a more interactive and supportive learning environment that encourages students to engage in speaking activities, and communication skills. This research is also expected to serve as a reference for language education institutions in implementing more effective and communicative learning strategies. Keywords: Code-Mixing, English Speaking Instruction