Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

7-1-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Curriculum & Instruction

First Advisor

Noushin Nouri

Second Advisor

Angela Chapman

Third Advisor

Sandra Musanti

Abstract

The continuous underrepresentation of the Latinx population in STEM fields and careers requires urgent attention. This study addresses this issue by designing and implementing a science curriculum based on culturally relevant and translanguaging pedagogies. Focusing on chemical and physical reactions, the curriculum was implemented in two 8th-grade science classes. Using an ethnographic case study methodology, this research employed classroom observations, field notes, student work analysis, and reflective interviews to gather data. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key patterns and themes. The analysis revealed how instructional strategies were designed to ensure the relevance of instruction to students' cultural and community backgrounds. Additionally, the study demonstrated how translanguaging pedagogy leveraged students' full linguistic repertoire. The findings were organized into nine themes: 1) Facilitating translanguaging and cross-linguistic connections to deepen science concepts; 2) Building convincing scientific arguments by connecting science to students' lives; 3) Fostering high expectations and cultural competence; 4) Affirming students' identities in science; 5) Enhancing student engagement and motivation; 6) Promoting positive student interactions and relationships; 7) Strengthening teacher-student connections; 8) Promoting inclusivity and equity in meeting diverse learners' needs; and 9) Empowering students to take ownership of their science learning and express their cultural and linguistic identities. The results demonstrate the multiple benefits of incorporating these pedagogies in science instruction and call for further research-based instructional practices across different science topics.

Comments

Copyright 2024 Angelita J. Salinas. https://proquest.com/docview/3098419235

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