ERIC Number: EJ1075746
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1916-4742
EISSN: N/A
What Do Teachers Need to Support English Learners?
Gomez, Marjorie N.; Diarrassouba, Nagnon
English Language Teaching, v7 n5 p89-101 2014
This study explored K-8 teachers' perceptions of their preparation and the challenges they encountered in delivering instruction to culturally and linguistically diverse learners. Using a mixed method research design, data were collected through a web-based survey from teachers in the state of Michigan. Researchers used chi-square tests to investigate the relationship between teachers' preparation and their knowledge of their diverse learners' learning needs. Qualitative comments were examined, organized, and summarized to illustrate key themes in each question under study. Findings revealed that teachers' perceptions of their preparation to teach linguistically and culturally diverse students were correlated with cultural diversity or lack of cultural diversity in their classrooms. Whereas teachers stated they felt prepared to teach heterogeneous classes, they encountered challenges in delivering instruction to English learners. In addition, teachers stated that cultural awareness training did not adequately prepare them to integrate cultural elements in their daily instructional practices.
Descriptors: Culturally Relevant Education, Grade 8, Middle School Teachers, Teacher Attitudes, Teacher Education, Mixed Methods Research, Teacher Qualifications, Knowledge Base for Teaching, Linguistic Competence, Self Efficacy, Cultural Differences, English Language Learners, Instructional Effectiveness, Teacher Effectiveness, Student Centered Curriculum, Teacher Surveys, Teaching Experience, Barriers, Educational Needs, Teacher Competencies
Canadian Center of Science and Education. 1120 Finch Avenue West Suite 701-309, Toronto, OH M3J 3H7, Canada. Tel: 416-642-2606; Fax: 416-642-2608; e-mail: elt@ccsenet.org; Web site: http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/elt
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Grade 8; Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Elementary Education; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Michigan
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A