A Family-Centered Approach to Learning English as a Second Language: A Mixed-Methods Experimental Evaluation

Lauren A. Tighe*, Teresa Eckrich Sommer, Terri J. Sabol, P. Lindsay Chase-Lansdale, Hirokazu Yoshikawa, Jeanne Brooks-Gunn, Amanda S. Morris, Christopher T. King

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

We present the 2-year experimental mixed-methods findings of a two-generation English as a second language (ESL) program. This program combines a high-dosage, child-oriented curriculum for parents with Head Start for children in addition to family-based supportive services. At baseline and after 2 years, 189 Latinx and Zomi immigrant parents completed surveys while children completed skill assessments. A subset of 67 parents participated in focus groups regarding their experiences. Treatment parents reported significantly higher English writing skills and self-esteem and significantly lower language brokering and material hardship. There were no significant differences in children’s outcomes. Possible explanatory mechanisms across multiple contexts were identified in the qualitative data. Evidence is promising that a Two-Generation ESL Program improves some outcomes for parents.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis
DOIs
StateAccepted/In press - 2024

Funding

The author(s) disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: This research was supported by the Administration for Children & Families Office of Planning Research and Evaluation (Award 90YR0073-01-00).

Keywords

  • adult education/development
  • early childhood
  • families
  • immigration/immigrants
  • program evaluation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Education

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