Abstract This research paper analyzes the specific challenges educators face when teaching bilingual children with special education needs. Specifically, it attempts to address whether early intervention for at-risk bilingual children with disabilities and other handicaps or other specific tools and academic strategies will improve learning outcomes. The paper also provides statistics on the unique challenges educators must address when working with special education bilingual students.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Problem Statement
Background
Preliminary Literature Review
Methods
Theoretical Framework & Data Collection
From the Paper "Amato & Baca (1989) note that throughout history bilingual education has shifted multiple times, from "nonbiased native-language assessments" to specific services directly related to a student's special needs and bilingual ability (168). Many consider the field of bilingual special education one that is emerging and growing. Baca & Cervantes (1989) note a need for a bilingual special education "interface" exists that incorporates training for special education students and teachers (168). Amato & Baca (1989) observe that certain teacher competencies are clearly necessary for bilingual special education teachers, competencies that must be more clearly defined. Neuman & Roskos (1997) and other researchers including Gonzalez-Bueno (2003) suggest promoting literacy among bilingual special education students should be a primary concern for educators. They suggest use of a bilingual alphabet will help facilitate this process."
