Between a Rock and a Hard Place: Understanding the Perceptions of Proficiency of Bilingual Teachers

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 31
  In Roundtable Session: Pre- and In-Service Teacher Education for Emerging Bilinguals

Abstract

Acknowledging the role of teachers as both language models and mediators to a positive attitude toward language acquisition, the present study attempts to gain a better understanding of teachers’ perceptions about the role of Spanish as a medium of instruction and their own linguistic competences. The present research examines the responses to a semi-structured questionnaire and the lesson plan presentations of 25 bilingual teachers participating in a Spanish language development seminar. Findings indicate the need to enhance the pre-service preparation and professional learning of bilingual teachers with respect to language. And, more importantly, it is imperative for bilingual teachers to transform the role of the native language and practices geared toward maintaining the hegemony of English in U.S. schools.

Author

• David Nieto, Northern Illinois University