Asymmetry in Dual Language Practice

Authors

  • Audrey Amrein Arizona State University
  • Robert A. Peña Arizona State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.v8n8.2000

Keywords:

Bilingual Education, Bilingual Teachers, Educational Practices, Elementary Education, Immersion Programs, Language of Instruction

Abstract

The capacity for dual-language programs to deliver specific benefits to students with different primary and secondary language skills continues to be debated. Individuals favoring dual language assert that as it relies upon a reciprocal approach, dual language students acquire dual language proficiency without the need for teachers to translate from one language to another. By utilizing and conserving the language skills that students bring, dual language students also gain cross-cultural understandings and an expanded opportunity to realize academic success in the future. Research that explores whether these programs meet the needs of monolingual and bilingual students is limited. The intent of this study is not to criticize dual language practice. Instead, it is to describe a newly implemented dual language immersion program that exists and operates in Phoenix, Arizona. In particular, this study examines the practices of dual language teachers at Leigh Elementary School and the challenges encountered as school personnel worked to provide students with different primary and secondary language skills increased opportunities to learn.

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Author Biographies

Audrey Amrein, Arizona State University

Audrey L. Amrein is currently a graduate student enrolled in the Policy Studies PhD program in the College of Education at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Her research interests include the study of school policy, urban education, and students at-risk.

Robert A. Peña, Arizona State University

Robert A. Peña, Ph.D., is currently an Assistant Professsor in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. His research interests include urban education, students at-risk, leadership, ethics, and the study of poverty.

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Published

2000-01-13

How to Cite

Amrein, A., & Peña, R. A. (2000). Asymmetry in Dual Language Practice. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 8, 8. https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.v8n8.2000

Issue

Section

Articles