Agency and growth: Do Latinos Need to Learn English to succeed?

• In Event: 084 - Student Forum Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02. How the Social Shapes Behaviors

Abstract

Hispanics are one of the fastest growing segments of the United States population according to United States Census Bureau (2013). Undoubtedly, when populations increase, political systems, economies, and educational institutions are affected. As a result, examining Hispanics and their assimilation and/or acculturation into American society can provide clues into how dramatically they will impact the United States as whole. A part of joining a new culture is familiarizing and eventually mastering the common language, in this case, English. Focusing on how Hispanics, including foreign and native-born individuals, view and value English may suggest several things, like their potential for gaining agency and social capital. First, theoretical frameworks and a literature review of scholarly articles on language acquisition and language proficiency can offer insight into to assess the value of English to Hispanics. Secondly, based on the literature review, hypotheses will be tested through statistical analysis performed using STATA software to further delve into the topic. Once findings are discussed, ideas for further research will be recommended.

Author

• Daniel Corral, Beloit College