The Kichwa languaje in the learning enviroment of the Spanish languaje

Abstract

This research aimed to analyze the influence of the Kichwa language on the Spanish language learning environment of fifth-grade students at the "Leopoldo Nicolás Chávez" Educational Unit, located in the Pujilí canton, Cotopaxi province. This study employed a quantitative approach based on the deductive method, which allowed for a starting point from general theoretical foundations regarding intercultural education and bilingualism, in order to examine how these manifest in a specific educational setting. The design adopted was descriptive, and the primary technique used was structured interviews, complemented by a frequency questionnaire administered to a sample of 10 Kichwa-speaking students. The findings showed that Kichwa has a strong presence in the home, while its use in school is limited. Furthermore, difficulties in learning Spanish were detected related to pronunciation, vocabulary, and reading fluency. However, the students demonstrated greater interest and comprehension when visual and participatory teaching strategies were implemented. In conclusion, the deliberate incorporation of Kichwa in the classroom promotes inclusive and intercultural learning environments, and enhances the learning of Spanish.