Introduction to the Immigrant Experience

Summary

This chapter sets the theoretical framework for this volume. It states two positions on immigration and language: one that is inclusive of other languages and cultures (diversity) and another one that rejects foreign influence and breeds nationalism (nativism). Racism and anti-immigrant notions are woven into the history and fabric of American society. Therefore, the current wave of anti-immigrant policies and practices is not new, but recurrent. This chapter also lays the theoretical framework for ecological constructs in understanding language practices in immigrant families. It introduces ecology of language perspectives, the bioecology of human development, funds of knowledge, translanguaging, and the social mediation of language. It describes the methodology as "mixed methods," including qualitative and quantitative data for analysis, and the use of small groups and single case studies. A synopsis of subsequent chapters is provided.