Spanish Courses for Veterinary Students to Communicate with Hispanic Workers
Author Information
Author(s): Leonor Salazar, Allen Jimena Martinez Aguiriano, Silvana Pietrosemoli, Arlene Garcia
Primary Institution: Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine
Hypothesis
Can integrating Spanish for Specific Purposes in Agriculture (SSPA) into veterinary and animal science curricula improve communication between English-speaking students and Spanish-speaking workers?
Conclusion
The study concludes that SSPA courses significantly enhance the ability of veterinary and animal sciences students to effectively communicate with the Hispanic workforce.
Supporting Evidence
- SSPA courses improved students' communication skills with Spanish-speaking workers.
- Significant differences in performance were observed between institutions.
- Students reported challenges such as technical issues and balancing academic commitments.
Takeaway
This study shows that teaching Spanish specifically for agriculture helps students talk better with Spanish-speaking workers on farms.
Methodology
The study involved designing and implementing three SSPA courses based on a needs assessment survey of animal professionals.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to varying baseline Spanish proficiency among students from different institutions.
Limitations
Challenges included technical issues and balancing academic commitments, which required adjustments to course delivery.
Participant Demographics
Participants were veterinary and animal science students from Texas Tech University, North Carolina State University, and Tarleton State University.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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