Examining the effects of foreign language study on African-American students' perceptions of cultural identity

Gina Venice Shropshire, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to describe and explain the experience of foreign language learning from viewpoint of African-American students. In addition, this research describes and explains whether foreign language study has any effect on the perceptions of cultural identity of African-American students. Cultural identity has been shown to be a negative factor in language acquisition. Perceptions of cultural identity have also been shown to have a negative effect on the academic performance of some African-American students. This study investigates whether cultural identity interferes with students' motivation in learning a foreign language or if it affects how they view themselves as students. The results, ascertained through interviews with the student participants, show that these African-American students do not feel that foreign language study relates to their perceptions of cultural identity. In addition, the descriptions of their concepts of cultural identity do not impede their motivation to study and learn a foreign language.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Garfinkel, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Curriculum development|Language arts|Modern language|Black studies|African American Studies

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