A Transformational Dual Language Educational Framework: Teachers Reclaiming Biculturalism and Sociopolitical Consciousness in Their Pedagogical Practices

• In Event: 33.080 - Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: 33.080-1 - Innovative Approaches to Challenges in Teacher Education

Abstract

Applying the principles of culturally relevant pedagogy (Ladson-Billings, 2006) to dual language (DL) education, we propose a transformational educational framework that reclaims a strong focus on biculturalism and the development of sociopolitical consciousness in DL education, complementing the well-known DL goals of academic achievement, bilingualism, and biliteracy. A collaborative action research study in which eight Spanish-English DL teachers worked to reclaim the cultural and social justice goals of DL education is the basis of this transformational model. Findings show that when these goals are framed as intrinsic goals of DL education teachers can develop culturally relevant beliefs and teaching practices in support of students' critical academic achievement. Implications for teacher educators and researchers will be discussed.

Authors

• Juan A. Freire, New Mexico State University

• Veronica E. Valdez, University of Utah