Work

Does Early Elementary Dual Language Instruction Deliver as Promised?

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Utilizing Utah state data, the aim of this study is to examine the association between language program types programs (dual language programs [DLI], sheltered instruction [SEI], and English as a second language [ESL]) since first grade and third-grade basic literacy skills of Spanish-speaking English learners (ELs) in the United States. We employ propensity score matching (PSM) to generate matched samples using child and family factors known to be associated with children’s early literacy: child sex, immigrant status, unhoused status, special education status, child met Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) benchmark at start of first grade, as well as family income and parental language (DLI & ESL, n = 380; DLI & SEI, n = 380; SEI & ESL, n = 550). Regression models comparing early literacy outcomes for each matched group indicate small trends, based on effect sizes, in favor of DLI programs when compared to other program types, although differences were not statistically significant. Implications for policy and practice related bilingual education are addressed.

Source: AERA Open

DOI: 10.1177/23328584241264513

Authors: Natalia Palacios, Natalie L. Bohlmann, Bethany A. Bell, Min Hyun Oh, Yitong Yue

Institution: University of Virginia

Language: English

Topic: Multilingual Education and Policy

Subfield: Linguistics and Language

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,000