Texas Educators' Understandings of English Learners Related to Their Educational Responsibilities

• In Event: How In-Service Teachers Improve Their Teaching in Multilingual Classrooms

Abstract

Abstract
English learners (ELs) make up a substantial portion of students in U.S. classrooms. Their needs are diverse; they come from rich linguistic, cultural, and family backgrounds, making flexible and considerate approaches to educating ELs essential for success. With vast diversity among ELs in the U.S., even within a single language category, it is imperative for educators to be sensitive to the individual needs of their EL students. In this study, we used a qualitative approach to better understand the perceptions Texas educators hold of English Learners in their schools. We found educators had a sense of student demographic, challenges, and needs. Gaps exist in how educators can best serve EL student needs.

Authors

• Elisabeth Kathryn Pugliese, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Hamada Ahmed Fahmy Elfarargy, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Rafael Lara-Alecio, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Beverly J. Irby, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Fuhui Tong, Texas A&M University - College Station