Term
Summer 2017
Capstone
Thesis
Degree Name
MAESL
Primary Advisor/Dissertation Chair
Ann Mabbott
Secondary Advisor/Reader One
Heidi Bernal
Peer-Reviewer/Reader Two
Caitlin Cohn
Abstract
This case study examined English learner’s perceptions of their mainstream and ESL classes and measured interaction levels of English learners within the mainstream classroom. Student perception of their ESL class can be complex, relating to issues of linguistic and cultural identity as well as academic achievement. Additionally, interaction is integral for English learners to gain access to linguistic and academic resources in the mainstream classroom. Results showed that English learners held conflicting views on languages and language learning. They also percieved significant differences between mainstream and ESL classes. Students’ interaction levels in the mainstream classroom were decidedly higher when placed in small group or one-to-one contexts. These results are used to offer suggestions on increasing English learners’ access to academic resources in the mainstream classroom, as well as ideas on how to counter the self-doubt and uncertainty English learners had about their linguistic abilities.
Research Methodology
Case Study, Grounded Theory, Interview, Observation
Keywords
ESL/ELLs, English learner interaction, English learner perception, mainstream
Recommended Citation
Amdahl, Kathryn Chamberlain, "English Learner Perceptions And Interactions In Mainstream Versus Small Group Environments" (2017). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 4301.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/4301