The Education Of Culturally And Linguistically Diverse Students

Abstract

In this study, the researcher has examined and presented the perceptions and attitudes of K-12 school teachers regarding students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. In addition, these same teachers were asked to evaluate their own professional preparations that might enable them to identify and effectively teach these students. This researcher conducted an in depth study in a Northwest Florida School District (Escambia Co.), and a Nodaway County School District in Missouri.  A proportionate, stratified, random sample of 300 K-12 regular education teachers, special education teachers, school counselors, and therapists was used for the survey. In addition, a case study was conducted of 30 members from each school district.  The findings of these studies, plus previous research and current literature all indicate that these educators were not professionally prepared to identify, understand and work with culturally, and linguistically diverse students.