Filipino Parents' Home Literacy and Language Practices

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: Research on the Education of Asian and Pacific Americans SIG Roundtable Session

Abstract

Filipinos are one of the largest immigrant groups in the U.S. with a population of over 4 million, of which 13% are school-aged children. Despite the substantial number, there are very few studies conducted about this specific immigrant group, especially in the field of education. The purpose of this study is to examine the home language and literacy practices of Filipino parents. Forty-five Filipino parents from four different communities in the U.S. were interviewed. Data analysis reveals that while majority of parents had high academic expectations for their child, literacy practices were not emphasized in the home. Furthermore, only 32% of parents reported their child was being exposed to the Filipino language, and even fewer children could actually speak Filipino.

Authors

• Maria Selena Protacio, Western Michigan University

• Maria Rosario T. de Guzman, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

• Aileen S. Garcia, South Dakota State University