Year: 2020
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Scarce ESL literacy research exists on low-literate, immigrant learners over the age of sixty.Research on this underrepresented population is critical for increasing their participation and success in ESL programs.This study describes the literacy practices, perceived needs, expectations, literacy statements, and classroom dynamics of low-literate, immigrant learners over the age of sixty.Data was collected over a seven-week period using interviews, classroom observations, and drawing tasks at a U.S. ESL tutoring center supported by volunteer tutors.Two ESL students from Ghana and México participated.Data was analyzed using Norton's (2013) investment model.Findings showed that participants desired autonomy; classroom dynamics influenced participants' perceived needs and negative literacy statements; and English-speaking family members positively influenced participants' engagement in English literacy practices.From a pedagogical perspective, increasing low-literate, immigrant learners' active participation in ESL programs requires improved resources for tutor training, relevant content for learners' needs, and learners to have strong social connections with English speakers outside of the classroom.this project were many others, who God placed along the way, that I would like to thank.Writing a project about others' lives, particularly the under-represented was an honor.Thank you to the participants of this research project for trusting me to tell your stories and share them.Your life stories are inspirations to me and other students, instructors, and researchers around the world.Thank you to the staff and volunteers at the literacy center for giving me the opportunity to turn this idea into a real project.An eternal thanks to Devin Auld, my husband.Your daily thoughts, optimism, and advice kept me from losing hope as this project took shape.Thank you for always being my safe space.I love orbiting your peaceful world.My tummy also thanks you for sacrificing your evenings to cook me delicious Alton Brown recipes as I finished this project.
Author: Hannah A Butler-Auld
Language: English
Subfield: Language and Linguistics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3137725801