What are some of the ethical issues that you are grappling with in your research? What are some of the ways in which you are responding to these questions?

In my research, I am dealing with the idea of language as an economic resource. The function of ESL programs is to equip non-English speakers (typically immigrants) with the linguistic tools to "succeed" in society (i.e., hold down a job, file their own papers, prepare children to succeed in school, etc.). Yet, the economy of language brushes over the textured anthropology of the linguistic community below. Language is more than a vehicle for economic advancement: It represents generational inheritance and cultural artifacts that, once erased, are nigh-impossible to bring back.

What, then, do we know of the correct "successes" to pursue? What comes of erasing texture to benefit livelihood? I often grapple with this idea myself, being an immigrant who has valorized English above my mother tongue. Yet, the incontrovertible proof is there that economic advancement is important. Ultimately, I am responding to this ethical dilemma of which kind of value to place foremost upon language in two ways. Firstly, I am utilizing Creole in the materials, instead of denying its existence, as so many ESL formats do. Secondly, I leave the choice up to the learners: Which language they choose to use in which circumstances is wholly up to them.

As you continue your research, have you considered alternative viewpoints in your investigation? If so, how have these alternative viewpoints enriched or changed your project?

My project deals with many different views on the "best" way to teach languages in general. While some of them are at odds with each other, others can be synergized to create a new, more all-encompassing methodology. I've chosen to synthesize what I believe makes the most sense, and to carefully use my judgement on which of the opposing viewpoints I believe best fit my needs and the needs of my students.