Document Type
Graduate Project
Date of Degree Completion
Summer 2005
Degree Name
Master of Education (MEd)
Department
Education
Committee Chair
Lee A. Plourde
Second Committee Member
Don B. Woodcock
Third Committee Member
Osman Alawiye
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine characteristics of academically successful Hispanic students. Rather than ask ourselves why so many Hispanic students are failing, this study takes a more positive approach to this subject. Despite repeated failures and early academic difficulties, some Hispanic students continue to fight through the adversity. Some children have a positive attitude toward school although there are monumental barriers for these at-risk children. This study asks, "What piece of the puzzle do these students possess that the others do not?" In essence, this is an "asset-oriented" approach rather than a deficit-assessment approach. The purpose was to explore and examine personal character traits of the high achieving Hispanic students. It also explores external factors, such as support systems for these students, as well as intrinsic motivators. One interesting theory is that of resiliency. Many successful at-risk students have a support system which fosters resiliency and helps them to succeed. There is a great deal of valuable information shared from these highly successful Hispanic students.
Recommended Citation
Hassinger, Mark, ""Beating the Odds": How Bi-Lingual Hispanic Students Work Through Adversity to Become High Achieving Students" (2005). All Graduate Projects. 871.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/graduate_projects/871
Included in
Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons