Bilingualism and Cultural Competence: A Systematic Review of Trends, Methodologies, and Evolving Perspectives

• In Event: Language, Borders, and Belonging: Multilingual Futures and Immigrant Students

Abstract

This systematic review examines two decades of research on bilingualism and cultural competence, tracing shifts from assimilationist frameworks to equity-centered approaches in education. Analyzing 18 peer-reviewed studies from 2004 to 2024, this analysis highlights how language and culture have often been undervalued, particularly through the erasure of linguistic specificity and the minimization of cultural differences. Anchored in the 2026 AERA Annual Meeting theme, the review “unforgets” marginalized linguistic and cultural identities and imagines a future where bilingualism and cultural competence are recognized as vital assets. Findings call for more precise language data, standardized cultural competence measures, and stronger teacher training in culturally sustaining pedagogy to build a more inclusive and just educational landscape.

Authors

• Arwa Alkhawaja, San Diego State University

• Christopher Brum, San Diego State University