Resilient and Nonresilient Hispanic English Language Learners' Attitudes Toward Their Classroom Learning Environment in Mathematics

Abstract

This study examines resilient and nonresilient characteristics in mathematics among Hispanic students in a major metropolitan city located in the south central region of the United States. The study examined data from semistructure interviews of 118 resilient and nonresilient English language learners (ELLs) in 4th and 5th grade. The interviews focused on a variety of factors including: (a) individual attributes (e.g., students’ motivation); (b) school and classroom factors (e.g., satisfaction, involvement, and affiliation); (c) family factors (e.g., parent involvement in academics); and (d) students’ use of time (e.g., doing homework). Additional indicators that were examined include help-seeking behaviors and skills that allow students to cope with academic difficulties. Overall, the findings indicate significant differences between resilient and nonresilient students on academic performance and their self-efficacy on perceived mathematical abilities. Significant differences were also found in the home learning environment, indicating that resilient students receive more assistance at home on academic tasks than non-resilient students.

Notes

*p < .05. **p < .01. ***p < .001.

Note. Scale used for all variables: almost everyday (1), once/twice a week (2), once/twice a month (3), never/hardly ever (4).