Spanish Heritage Language Learners Research Articles

Voices of SHL educators

Abstract Even though the field of heritage language education has flourished in recent years and has placed emphasis on the development of biliteracies in Spanish heritage language (SHL) learners (e.g., Belpoliti & Bermejo, 2020; Samaniego & Warner, 2016), little is known about how SHL writing instruction is conducted in terms of educators’ practices and perceptions. Through an online survey distributed across the United States, SHL educators reported the main challenges they face (e.g., working with accuracy, writing conventions), strategies they use (e.g., modelling), and the technology they use to teach writing. The survey also provides an overview of the importance given to various elements of a composition (e.g., task type, range of vocabulary) when teaching SHL courses. Overall, SHL educators’ perceptions provide a knowledge base of instructor experiences and practices that can assist in teacher training and inform curricular models.

Written Subject Pronoun Expression among Spanish Heritage Language Learners

Este artículo analiza la producción del pronombre sujeto en español desde una nueva perspectiva: el género escrito. A través del análisis de 90 ensayos escritos por estudiantes de español como lengua de herencia, el presente estudio ofrece avances en el entendimiento del comportamiento del pronombre sujeto en la escritura. Aunque el comportamiento del pronombre sujero varía en cuanto a su frecuencia de uso en las diferentes variedades de español, se han encontrado patrones similares que predicen el comportamiento de dichos pronombres (Carvalho et al., 2015). El presente estudio explora si estos patrones de comportamiento (explorados hasta ahora solo en el ámbito de la oralidad) se mantienen en la escritura de nuestros participantes: hablantes de herencia.

Spanish Heritage Language Learners' Reading Accuracy and Spelling Difficulties

Spelling has been recognized as a challenging aspect of literacy for Spanish Heritage Language Learners (SHLLs). This study examines the relationship between reading and spelling accuracy, with a specific focus on the vowel e, in monophthongs and diphthongs. A total of forty-five participants completed the Bilingual Language Profile and a reading task involving the contrast between monophthongs and diphthongs in real words and pseudowords. The results of the study indicate that participants encountered greater difficulties in accurately reading the vowel e when it appeared in a diphthong (ie) than when it appeared in a monophthong. Moreover, participants’ reading abilities were subject to a lexicality effect and hindered by limited phonological awareness and decoding skills. The paper further explores the connections between individual language dominance factors and literacy measures.

A call for critical and open pedagogies in Spanish heritage language instruction: Students as knowledge producers of Open Educational Resources (OERs)

This paper stresses the urgent need to implement critical and open pedagogies in language teaching, especially in the Spanish heritage language classroom. Language courses are often compulsory in secondary and higher education and typically employ traditional pedagogical models that are structured by grammar and/or communication tasks. This study introduces how heritage language teaching emerged as a field of study in the United States and offers a brief overview of critical and open pedagogies and their connection to open educational resources. This paper then introduces critical and open pedagogies to teaching Spanish as a heritage language, followed by a critical look at the existing Spanish teaching material. As an alternative to this material, this article shares a project titled “Discovering El Barrio” which addresses an innovative and productive pedagogical practice carried out by a Spanish heritage language class at Lehman College, CUNY. In this project, Spanish heritage language learners (HLL) became producers of authentic teaching and learning materials for second language (L2) Spanish learners.

Examining Oral (Dis)Fluency in—uh– —Spanish as a Heritage Language

Silence, self-interruptions, or hesitations in spontaneous speech are often interpreted as markers of oral disfluency as they lead to difficulties in delivering a message and in processing it. The main purpose of this study is to examine how such markers of discourse structure factor into the overall oral fluency of 58 US Spanish heritage language learners enrolled in Spanish classes at the college level. Participants were grouped according to age of onset of bilingualism (i.e., sequential or simultaneous) and the order in which they acquired each language (i.e., English first or Spanish first). After completing a semi-controlled oral production task, in both Spanish and English, breakdown pauses and repair pauses were extracted and then analyzed in terms of quantity, quality, and mean duration. Our findings revealed (i) that all groups produced shorter pauses in English, their dominant language; and (ii) that all experimental groups behaved very similarly in Spanish despite having had different experiences with bilingualism growing up. Albeit tentatively, given the sample size and the nature of the present study, we take these findings to suggest that type of heritage bilingualism and the order in which each language was acquired does not seem to play a significant role in terms of production of breakdown and repair pauses.

Spanish heritage language learners’ motivational profile in the postsecondary classroom: Insights from psychological network modeling

AbstractThis study sought to investigate the psychological network structure of adult Spanish heritage language (HL) learners’ motivational profile by considering interconnections among the following variables: the possible HL selves, family influence, intended HL learning effort, HL achievement goal orientations, HL enjoyment, HL anxiety, perceived classroom environment, and critical language awareness. In line with a complex systems perspective, mutually interdependent connections among variables were estimated using psychological network modeling. The analysis revealed a majority of positive associations among the system constituents, with nodes representing the possible HL selves, HL enjoyment, and intended HL learning effort holding the most central influence on the network. Results also shed light on the unexplored relevance of critical language awareness in understanding HL learners’ motivational and emotional dispositions. We discuss the theoretical, pedagogical, and methodological implications of the study, highlighting the potential of network analysis for providing insights into complex psychological phenomena.

Digital Storytelling: Changing Learners’ Attitudes and Self-efficacy Beliefs

Abstract This study examines the impact of writing instruction on Spanish heritage language (SHL) learners’ attitudes towards digital stories (DS) and self-efficacy beliefs with regard to academic writing, multiliteracies, and computer abilities. Two types of writing instruction—a traditional curriculum centered around genres and a multiliteracies curriculum consisting of the interpretation and design of DSs—were implemented in fourth and fifth-semester SHL courses at a US university in the Southwest. Drawing on Gardner’s (1985) conceptualization of attitude, and Bandura’s (1991) construct of perceived self-efficacy, a survey was designed to explore changes in participants’ (n = 225) scores before and after the treatments. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to determine the reliability of the instrument and a latent mean structure analysis was used to explore differences among groups before and after the 16-week intervention period. Findings indicate that curricular changes aimed at developing multiliteracies benefitted participants in two of the four domains under examination: attitude towards DSs and self-efficacy in multiliteracies abilities. Areas in which participants exposed to the multiliteracies curriculum did not experience a positive impact—self-efficacy in academic writing abilities and computer abilities—provide insights into how multiliteracies abilities develop and potential modifications that can be implemented in the curriculum to maximize its positive impact.

Writing development in Spanish as a second and heritage language: a corpus study on complexity

ABSTRACT Few studies have analyzed the writing features of second language (L2) alongside heritage language (HL) learners of Spanish. Focusing on the development of writing complexity, we collected data from students at the beginning and at the end of a composition sequence. Comparing the groups at the outset revealed HL students’ greater mood complexity. After 14 weeks, both groups improved in tense complexity, mean essay length, and lexical sophistication. Our findings suggest that, given sufficient time, both HL and L2 students can progress in similar ways in at least some measures of linguistic complexity. Nevertheless, they might gain from instruction that facilitates new and diverse vocabulary, and the construction of longer sentences. L2 students specifically would benefit from greater emphasis on the subjunctive. Our study supports the claim that achieving writing complexity takes time and comes in stages, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of L2 and HL writing development.

A Linguistic and Socio-affective Approach to Developing an Online Spanish Heritage Placement Exam

Abstract This article describes the development and validation of a placement exam designed to identify and place Spanish heritage language learners in the heritage language program at Lehman College, the City University of New York (CUNY), an urban institution located in Northeastern United States (Bronx, New York City). Building upon previous research (e.g., Fairclough et al., 2010; Potowski et al., 2012), we provide an overview of the process we followed, including selecting content, computerization of the exam, and reliability analysis. A combination of quantitative analyses and qualitative observations during the pilot phase allowed us to identify the linguistic areas that were better at discriminating among levels, and the socio-affective factors that had to be taken into account to understand learners’ needs. As we continue to improve subsequent versions of the exam, this approach will allow us to better place students while reassessing and redesigning the curriculum.

Default Grapheme and Language Transfer in the Spelling of /s/ in Spanish Heritage Language Learners

Abstract This study investigates the spelling proficiency of Spanish heritage language learners (SHLLs) in the Spanish phoneme-grapheme correspondence that has been identified as the source of the greatest number of spelling errors: /s/ → s, c, z. Using a naturalistic corpus, this study aims to ascertain whether (1) s is SHLL’s default grapheme in the representation of /s/; (2) cognate status is a facilitative factor in spelling; and (3) previous Spanish language instruction affects individual performance in the spelling of /s/. The results show that the preference for s is mediated by difficulties with the c/z alternation and poor spelling in z words. In addition, cognate status was shown to have a facilitative effect in the three relevant graphemes. Finally, the results indicate that one or more years of previous language instruction in secondary school make a statistically significant difference, but that additional Spanish instruction beyond two years did not bring corresponding gains. The results of this study contribute to the scarce literature in Spanish spelling in this population and have pedagogical implications for orthographic patterns that merit particular instructional focus, as well as for strategies that take full advantage of cognates (including semi-cognates and false cognates) in spelling instruction.

Digital Synesthesia in Heritage and Second Language Writing during Collaborative and Individual Digital Storytelling

Using the social semiotic multimodal approach, this study compared the transformation and transduction moves of eight Spanish heritage language learners (SHLs) and six second-language learners (L2s) as they composed collaborative and individual digital stories (DSs) in an undergraduate advanced Spanish writing class. The research analyzed the learners’ composing processes regarding digital synesthesia when working collaboratively and individually as they integrated written, oral, aural, and visual semiotic resources. The data revealed that SHLs demonstrated more frequent and more complex digital synesthesia than did their L2 classmates during their quest for digital multimodality in Spanish, indicating improvement via task repetition in frequency and variety of integrated modes.

Examining the Influence of Spanish Heritage Language Learners’ Critical Language Awareness (CLA) Development on Ethnic Identity Formation

As critical language pedagogies are being implemented in heritage language (HL) settings, there is an increasing need to examine the impact of critical approaches in Spanish HL speakers. The present study examines how the development of HL learners’ critical language awareness (CLA) influences ethnic identity formation in a university-level course that adopts a critical approach to HL instruction. As part of the curricular content, a CLA instructional intervention, consisting of a 4-week unit (10 h), was implemented. First, to measure ethnic identity, at the beginning (pre) and at the end of the semester (post), students completed the Ethnic Identity Scale (EIS) and provided comments with their answers. Additionally, in order to examine CLA development before and after the intervention, participants completed an existing questionnaire, which addresses topics such as language variation, language ideologies, and bilingualism. Overall, the results show that students’ CLA levels increased from “somewhat high” to “high”. Furthermore, participants reported different ethnic–racial identity statuses, which moved toward ethnic identity achievement. Higher CLA levels were associated with an achieved positive status. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of the link between students’ CLA and ethnic identity in HL educational settings, where a critical language pedagogy is applied.

Can Spanish programs evaluate oral proficiency gains for all learners? An empirical analysis of traditional and nontraditional Spanish majors' oral proficiency development

AbstractHigher education Spanish programs in the United States are diverse and complex, especially when it comes to student linguistic background. However, most studies on language proficiency were designed for traditional learners (L2s). In this study, we examine oral proficiency development of 125 Spanish majors in light of four linguistic profiles: Extended Stay Abroad learners, Second Language Learners, Native Speakers, and Spanish Heritage Language Learners. Data were collected using an oral exam based on the ACTFL Oral Proficiency guidelines at the beginning and end of students' upper division coursework. Quantitative analysis reveals significant differences within groups for senior exit oral proficiency exam scores as well as level gains. These findings suggest that oral proficiency exams are a valuable tool for understanding differences in oral proficiency development for the four student categories. This information is pertinent for program assessment and has important research and pedagogical implications.

Back to the Initial Condition: Experiences that Trigger the Need to Develop Language Skills Among University Spanish Students

The present study investigates how the L2 learning experience shapes multilinguals' motivation to improve their writing skills in Spanish, a language they study at university level. Within the Second Language Motivational Self System Theory (L2MSS), the L2 learning experience is often neglected when it comes to interpreting and discussing findings on motivation. We propose that the analysis of the L2 learning experience should acknowledge both formal and informal settings, such as the family context, in order to research why and how a person chooses to develop certain linguistic abilities like writing.
 Given that the L2 learner experience is spatially and temporally bound, the concept of sensitivity to initial conditions, i.e., the conditions or changes that may trigger the learner to move towards enhanced language learning, will be adopted to research the L2 learning experience.
 The aim of the study is twofold. First, to investigate the Spanish learning experience as a function of the initial conditions referred to by the participants. Second, to research how the Spanish ideal and ought-to selves are related to the students’ motivation to use and learn or maintain Spanish skills.
 The data consist of a questionnaire answered by multilingual university students of Spanish (n=21) and written autobiographical narratives. The participants belong to two groups: one group of Spanish heritage language learners (n=10) and one group of native-Swedish speaking L3 Spanish learners (n=11). Overall, family reasons, previous school experiences, high proficiency in Spanish, previously acquired languages, contact with the linguistic communities, language use and context are all aspects tightly connected to the students’ motivation to learn, maintain and develop Spanish language proficiency. The L2 learning experience, as a wider construct dependent on the sensitivity to initial conditions, must be considered to understand the complex nature of multilingual literacy development.

Racialized Experiences of Language Identities: Spanish Heritage Learners Studying Spanish in a Non-Heritage Country

The most recent Open Doors report by the Institute of International Education (IIE, 2020) indicates that the number of non-white U.S. study abroad students has been steadily growing over the past 10 years, and now it accounts for 31% of all students pursuing part of their education abroad. This study focuses on four Spanish heritage language learners (SHLLs) of Dominican, Mexican, Peruvian, and Colombian/Venezuelan descent with differing Spanish proficiency who enrolled in a short-term study abroad (SA) program for Spanish in Quito, Ecuador during May-June of 2017, 2018, or 2019. This SA program was sponsored by a four-year college in the southeastern U.S. This study included a closed-ended questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, (classroom) observations, e-portfolios, journals, and e-mails. A poststructuralist lens and Norton’s theory of investment were employed to explore the identities of these four undergraduates, their social networks, language, and culture learning opportunities, and how these experiences shaped their individual development. Considerations will be offered in terms of how a social justice-oriented curriculum can be a powerful approach to support the emergence of heritage language identities abroad in socially situated contexts. Civically oriented SA programs have the potential to help SHLLs construct global identities, increase communication skills, and gain global understanding, compassion, and tolerance for social change.  

EXPLORING AN ELICITED IMITATION TASK AS A MEASURE OF HERITAGE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

AbstractThis study examines a 30-item Spanish elicited imitation task (EIT) as a measure of global language proficiency for heritage language (HL) learners of Spanish. Results from Rasch modeling suggest that, while EIT scores demonstrated excellent reliability, the ability of much of the HL sample far exceeded the difficulty of the items. Differential item functioning analysis revealed that several items functioned differently for the present study’s HL sample than for the second language learners from a prior study. Additionally, although EIT scores were strongly correlated with another proficiency measure for the present HL sample (e.g., the Diploma de español como lengua extranjera or DELE), common-person equating suggested that the EIT and the DELE may measure different latent variables. Overall, the results provide evidence of the EIT’s utility as a proficiency assessment tool for research on HL learners, however, with limitations and the need for additional analyses discussed.

The other side of heritage language education: Understanding Spanish heritage language teachers in the United States

AbstractIn response to the growth of Spanish heritage language (SHL) learners in the United States, researchers and instructors in the field of SHL teaching proposed a set of goals and pedagogical approaches to meet these learners’ needs. However, because few studies focused on SHL teachers’ professional preparation and practice, it is unclear whether these developments have reached language teacher preparation and professionalization, or how SHL teachers are implementing these pedagogies. This study seeks to better understand the experiences, practices, and needs of teachers of SHL to inform and improve professional development models. By analyzing data from a nationwide online survey and exploring individual experiences through scripted interviews, we offer a snapshot of the realities of these educators working in different educational contexts in the United States. The analysis highlights the challenges faced by SHL instructors, the gaps in their teacher education, and the need for additional resources and targeted support. The implications of these results for SHL teacher preparation are discussed considering feasible options to foster their professional growth.

The switch to remote instruction in Spanish heritage language courses: Why social presence matters


 
 
 
 The pandemic amplified the educational disparities that Latinx students face in virtual courses. This research project describes Spanish Heritage Language (SHL) learners’ experiences with remote instruction, and it proposes using the Community of Inquiry Model (Garrison et al., 2000) and modified versions of the Theory of Social Presence (Fayram, 2017; Hauck & Warnecke, 2012; Strong et al., 2012; Whiteside, 2015) as guiding frameworks to obtain information about social presence (SP) aspects in the online classroom. A total of 126 SHL learners took a validated online survey to evaluate the challenges of switching to a remote modality of instruction. This research emphasizes the need to design effective online courses that foster SP as a key element to diminish feelings of isolation and encourage active participation in the classroom. We propose that teaching presence is an important component of social presence in online SHL courses, and we offer pedagogical implications for practitioners.
 
 
 

A Comparison of the Effects of Mindful Conceptual Engagement for the Teaching of the Subjunctive to Heritage- and Second-Language Learners of Spanish

This article investigates the effects that Mindful Conceptual Engagement (MCE) had on the teaching of the Spanish subjunctive on second (L2) and heritage language learners (HL) of Spanish. A total of 26 university-level undergraduate students participated in the study; 12 were advanced L2 students and 14 were intermediate HL students. The methodology used was MCE, which is based on the principles of Concept-Based Instruction (Negueruela 2003; Negueruela and Lantolf 2006). MCE has its origins in Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory and it proposes that the creation and manipulation of didactic models by students promotes the internalization of complex grammatical concepts that would otherwise require long grammatical explanations. Models need to be generalizable and informative and can include, for example, flowcharts, pictures, or schemas among others. In the present study, the concept of [±EXPERIENCE] (Bull 1965) was used to teach the variable uses of indicative and subjunctive in adjectival relative clauses (Busco unas tijeras que cortan/corten). Students had to create their own models and use them to complete a series of assignments in class and at home. Production and interpretation exercises were used in pre- and post-test questionnaires to gauge their improvement. Feedback questionnaires were administered three weeks after the intervention to measure the attitudes and perceptions towards the use of didactic models. Results indicate that both groups improved their indicative/subjunctive interpretation and production abilities after MCE. However, statistically significant differences exist between HL and L2 students according to type of task and student group. Feedback questionnaire results also show that MCE was regarded as positive and useful by both groups.

Studying abroad in Mexico with Mexican ancestry: Desiring to be ‘one of ours’

ABSTRACT This study counters the popular assumption that Spanish Heritage Language Learners (SHLLs) on study abroad (SA) in a place of cultural origin can easily adapt and find acceptance due to the linguistic and cultural resources they bring with them. Our study builds on previous work to illustrate a more nuanced and complex story of desires for belonging. The study investigated students’ language desire and student cultural and ethnic identities to determine how these factors informed SHLLs’ relationships with community stakeholders while on short-term SA in Oaxaca, Mexico. The study relies on pre-, mid-, and post-SA interviews. Interviewees included six students of Mexican heritage and 12 community stakeholders (five Spanish teachers, two programme administrators, two educational tour operators, and three host parents). Reflexive thematic analysis clarified differences between language desires of students with distant-Mexican ancestry and those with close-ancestry. The former sought missing family connections and ‘real’ family interactions with host families. The latter desired wholeness in their identity and a corresponding confidence in language skills. Community stakeholders expressed complex responses to participants with Mexican heritage, viewing distant-ancestry students as problematic for lacking Spanish and close-ancestry students difficult due to their Spanish knowledge.