A Literature Review: Dual Immersion Programs in Elementary Schools
Graduation Date
Spring 2003
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Program Name
Education
Program Director
Madalienne F. Peters, EdD
Abstract
This literature review examines the procedure for implementing a dual immersion program in a public elementary school. Two-way bilingual programs carry on the goals of bilingual proficiency, academic proficiency, academic achievement, and positive cross-cultural attitudes and behaviors. This type of program refers to an integrated model in which speakers of two languages are placed together in a bilingual classroom to receive instruction across the curriculum through the two target languages. It is a grade-level, mainstream bilingual program, in which native-English speakers are included.
The results of two-way bilingual program studies point to their effectiveness in educating nonnative-English speaking students. The ultimate goal for two-way bilingual programs is to produce students fluent in two languages and to improve the relationships between majority and minority group members by enhancing their cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.