Developing multicultural leaders through online language immersion
Journal for Multicultural Education
ISSN: 2053-535X
Article publication date: 11 October 2021
Issue publication date: 18 November 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to document the impact of an 80-h virtual Spanish language immersion program on four elementary school leaders in Kentucky.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a mixed methods approach. Each subject participated in three semi-structured interviews with the researcher and a standardized oral language assessment.
Findings
Participants expressed greater confidence when interacting with students and families who do not speak English, greater empathy for students learning English, new cross-cultural understandings and deeper knowledge about the language acquisition process and language instruction.
Practical implications
Training in a foreign language may prove to be a valuable professional learning activity for leaders seeking to develop a stronger skillset and mindset for multicultural education.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the literature by documenting a previously un-researched virtual language immersion program.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This project was funded by the Kentucky Department of Education.
Citation
Courtney, M.B. (2021), "Developing multicultural leaders through online language immersion", Journal for Multicultural Education, Vol. 15 No. 4, pp. 416-428. https://doi.org/10.1108/JME-07-2021-0094
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited