The experiences of english language learners with disabilities: a comparative analysis
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Kimberly W. Money (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Ulrich Reitzug
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to analyze the experiences of students who are English Language Learners with disabilities in public schools. Research Methodology consisted of an in-depth case study analysis of two students of Hispanic descent who attend a rural elementary school in North Carolina. All former teachers of the two students and their parents were interviewed as a part of this qualitative research study. Results of the study showed that teachers overall concur that they have not received appropriate or adequate training on how to meet the needs of students learning English as a Second Language; therefore, they lacked knowledge about how to distinguish a language barrier from a disability. The data also revealed that teachers agreed that a more proactive, preventive approach needs to be employed in order to fully meet the needs of students who are learning English as a Second Language and are students with disabilities. Teachers must be taught how to understand cultural and linguistic diversity in addition to how to distinguish key features of a learning disability. Other significant results consisted of the vital importance of parental involvement opportunities for bilingual parents. Findings from this study support that bilingual parents are operating in a survival mode and supporting their children to the best of their knowledge but need additional support and teaching so that they understand how to support the education of their child in first and/or second language at home.
The experiences of english language learners with disabilities: a comparative analysis
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Created on 12/1/2010
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2010
- Keywords
- ELL, English as a Second Language, Instructional Leadership of ELLs
- Subjects
- English language $x Study and teaching (Elementary) $x Foreign speakers.
- Children with disabilities $x Education (Elementary) $z United States.
- Linguistic minorities $x Education (Elementary) $z United States.
- Hispanic American children $x Education (Elementary) $z United States $v Case studies.
- Special education $x Study and teaching (Elementary) $x United States.
- Second language acquisition $x Psychological aspects.