Experiences of Secondary-Aged Latinx English Learner Students in Virtual Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Date
2022-12
Authors
Saenz, Diana
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Abstract
This descriptive qualitative study seeks to understand the experiences of
secondary-aged Latinx EL students during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through the lens of CRT and LatCrit theories, the researcher analyzes the testimonios of
eight secondary-aged Latinx EL students. This study addresses a gap in the literature as
it pertains to online instruction during the pandemic and focuses on the challenges and
victories that are unique to the Latinx ELs that participated in this study. It focuses on
the many ways communities can support Latinx EL students by creating awareness to the
issues of oppression that students experience in our schools. Understanding how
disproportionately COVID-19 has affected Latinx ELs can provide more meaningful
insight into their realities.
This study evaluates the academic and emotional support systems provided by
Texas schools during the pandemic as well as the vital role the families played for the
participants. Data was collected by conducting semi-structured individual interviews
(testimonios) using an online platform. The research findings indicate that students that
participated in this study significantly relied on the emotional support of their families to
overcome the emotional concerns they experienced during the pandemic. This study
highlights ways participants navigated unchartered territory as the pandemic presented
many challenges to the existing school system. The results, implications, and
recommendations for future research will be more thoroughly presented in this study.
Description
Keywords
Testimonios, COVID-19, Online education, Latinx, EL
Citation
Sáenz, D. (2022). <i>Experiences of secondary-aged Latinx English learner students in virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic</i> (Unpublished dissertation). Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.