Bilingualism in Cuba: Experiences of Cuban Teachers of English

• In Event: Democratizing Evidence in Education: The Voices and Experiences of Teachers and School Leaders

Abstract

For decades, the post-revolutionary Cuban government has recognized the importance of English in the economic advancement of the country. This study focused on Cuban teachers of English and their impact on bilingual development in Cuba. Through two comprehensive questionnaires, respondents were asked to describe their own English language development and instructional practices that they employ to make English accessible to their students. Fourteen educators from two major Cuban cities, Havana and Santiago de Cuba participated in this study. Teacher recommendations that make learning of English relevant for students and enhance bilingualism in Cuban schools are provided. Findings are valuable to teacher educators and language policy professionals around the world who wish to increase students’ English language proficiency in their countries.

Author

• Ali Borjian, San Francisco State University