Date of Award
2012
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Curriculum, Instruction, and Media Technology
First Advisor
Susan Kiger
Abstract
Using a qualitative approach,this study explored and analysed the experiences of Spanish-speaking students who took English as a second language(ESL)classes during Grades K-12 as well as the experiences of teachers licensed for English as a second language who teach in public schools in Indiana.Data were collected by conducting individual interviews with four teachers and once focus group session with three former ESL students who are Spanish-speaking Hispanics.The analysis of the data resulted in emergent themes that helped to identify specific motivators and demotivators that play a role in the ESL class.The six main themes that emerged from the data were the language learning environment,the student-teacher relationship,the choice of task or reading material,the use of technology,peer scaffolding,and the difficulty of the task.In addition to these themes,student's perspectives on placement as well as the teacher's concerns and ideas scenarios were also included in this study.All the information provided by the participants can be used to better understand the dynamics of the language classroom and how these dynamics either promote or hinder the student's willingness to learn English.
Recommended Citation
Brizuela, Alejandra, "An interpretative study of the perceptions and reactions of spanish-speaking students to motivators and demotivators in the english as a new language classroom." (2012). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2340.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/2340