Overcoming Language and Cultural Barriers in School: Helping Hispanic Students Acquire Success in Elementary School

<p>Research shows that Hispanic second language students are not as successful as their English-speaking peers in school. The problem is in part due to several factors: curriculum deliverance in a foreign language, cultural differences, and family/school disconnect. Current census reports reveal that Hispanic populations in the United States, and therefore within public schools, are on the rise. With the passing of the 2002 Elementary and Secondary Education Act, also known as No Child Left Behind, mainstream classroom curriculum instruction is now primarily taught in English. Without honoring the many languages and cultures that California students bring to the classroom, the disconnect between school and home deepens. This study followed qualitative design research using the interview format to research ways to more fully integrate Hispanic students and their families into the public school system. Teachers and administrators served as participants in data collection. Results indicated that honoring Hispanic culture within the curriculum and broadening the definition of parent participation, Hispanic students and families feel more connected to the educational process.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science

Level thesis:degree_level

Master's Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Education

Year

2011

Author dc:creator

• Ivey, Pauline S.

• Education

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholar.dominican.edu/education-print-theses/417

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholar.dominican.edu:education-print-theses-1416