Exploring the Influence of 21st Century Skills in a Dual Language Program: A Case Study

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. 3801 W. Temple Avenue, Pomona, CA 91768. Tel: 909-869-3935; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: https://www.cpp.edu/~ceis/education/international-journal-teacher-leadership/index.shtml

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Case Studies; Bilingual Education Programs; Educational Change; Academic Standards; Interviews; Focus Groups; School Districts; Community Development; Leadership; Systems Approach; Second Language Learning; Native Language; English (Second Language); Spanish; Elementary School Students; Middle School Students; High School Students; Hispanic American Literature; Mexican Americans; Generalization; Parent Materials; Career Development; Daily Living Skills; Skill Development; Educational Cooperation; Educational Objectives

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Preparing students as 21st century learners is a key reform in education. The Partnership for 21st Century Skills developed a framework that identifies outcomes needed for successful implementation of rigorous standards. The Dual Language (DL) program was identified as a structure for reform with systems and practices which can be used to prepare students for the 21st century. The purpose of this study was to explore the systems and practices within a DL program that support development of 21st century skills in a southern California school district at an elementary school, middle school, and high school. Data were collected through interviews, focus groups, and document review and were coded to reveal six themes. Themes pertaining to Research Question One were: systems that advanced 21st century skills, and structures for collaboration. Leadership, development of community, and shared beliefs were themes that were germane to Research Question Two.

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2017

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