Supporting English Language Learners in K–12 Public Schools by Bilingual Interpreting Services: Strategies and Challenges

• In Event: Moscone Center North Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: Expanding the Research Terrain for Multilingualism

Abstract

The present study explores the strategies bilingual interpreters normally adopt and the challenges they face while serving English Language Learners in a US school district. Drawing on the notions of “access to education” and “language as an asset”, through content analysis of observation data, survey data, and artifacts collected, the study indicates that the most commonly applied strategies bilingual interpreters applied include building up rapport with ELLs, collaborating with classroom teachers, empowering themselves by developing interpreting expertise, and employing a myriad of practical techniques. The challenges for the bilingual interpreters mainly concern payment, student motivation and investment, and personal competencies. Implications for policy-makers, schools, and bilingual interpreters are discussed.

Author

• Xinyue Zuo, University of Massachusetts - Amherst