The Power and Possibilities of Dual-Language Immersion for Economically Disadvantaged Students

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Immigration, Language, and Schools: Educational Policy in Communities

Abstract

While studies have demonstrated the positive impacts of dual language immersion for participating students, the benefits of dual language immersion for economically disadvantaged students has not been the focus of research. Motivated by the literature on peer effects, self-efficacy, and best practices in dual language immersion instruction, as well as preliminary findings from a program evaluation of dual language immersion in North Carolina, we examine whether dual language immersion provides particular benefit to economically disadvantaged students. We find positive impacts on both reading and math End of Grade test scores for economically disadvantaged students in dual language immersion classrooms and conclude that collaboration between researchers, school administrators, and policymakers could best ensure that dual language immersion serves the public good.

Author

• Kristina M. Patterson, Georgia Southern University