Toward Better Understanding the Experiences of Secondary-Level Latino Immigrant Youth Within Two Specialized Program Models

• In Event: 14.044 - Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: 14.044-3 - Highlighting Immigrant Capacity, Voice, and Resistance in Learning Contexts

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to analyze the experiences and outcomes of Latino students attending two yearlong program models designed specifically to educate secondary-level newcomer immigrant youth. The data for this study was collected in a manner that valued the students’ voices and experiences, thereby viewing such programs through the lens of the student participants. Two secondary-level programs compared in this study were a self-contained newcomer program and a beginning level English as a Second Language program. Three classes from each of the two programs were explored to determine, according to the youth, which program more successfully prepared them to gain the language proficiency, academic skills, and academic self-concept necessary to exit successfully after the requisite year.

Author

• Amanda Matas, San Diego State University