An Understanding of the Concept and Conditions of Bilingualism: A Study in an EFL Setting

Sandra Patricia Lastra R.

Abstract


This paper presents a study carried out at a private school that implemented a bilingual program more than a decade ago. The main aim of the project was to find out how the school community understands the concept of bilingualism and the conditions required to fulfill the goals of a bilingual curriculum at the school. Data were collected through surveys and focus groups made up of different members of the school community. The results showed that bilingualism is associated with a high intensification of English classes and the necessity of having English-speaking employees. Results also depict some theoretical issues about bilingualism and important conditions for implementing a bilingual program.


Keywords


bilingualism; additive; content based instruction; power; prestige; focus groups

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References


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