Children's Perception of English as a Second Language

This research is based on a qualitative study conducted in Puerto Rico, with ten middle school students. They answered questions relating to their perceptions about learning English as a second language under colonial conditions in Puerto Rico. Participants also analyzed, challenged and constructed their own meanings concerning the images and content in the stories contained within U.S. made textbooks utilized in their English class. Moreover, they had the opportunity to discuss, and contest images of themselves as Latinos portrayed in English stories written by both Puerto Rican and non-Puerto Rican authors. The Case Study research method, encouraged the inclusion of the researcher s personal perspective into the interpretation; allowing reflection on both my role as an ESL teacher and on my personal educational philosophy while discussing English language issues from the students perspective. English is a compulsory subject that students love, hate, and also resist in the educational system in Puerto Rico. A critical pedagogical perspective provided the participants the opportunity to challenge the agenda of the U.S. dominant culture promoting the ESL program in Puerto Rico.

Autorentext

Dr. Santiago started her education in 1980, at the University of Puerto Rico, focusing her studies in the ESL field. In 1991 she finished her MA in TESOL at the Interamerican University. In 2008 she completed her dissertation at Penn State University. It focuses on multicultural children s literature and curriculum and instruction.