University Indigenous Students’ Perceptions towards Kichwa, Spanish and English

Abstract

Even though there has been a significant advancement in human rights, social justice and social practices around the world; some Ecuadorian indigenous students still struggle against many social and linguistic limitations, especially in Chimborazo province. This research was carried out with 30 Ecuadorian indigenous students who studied English as a compulsory subject for five months. The aim of the study is to explore the general attitudes of indigenous university students about Kichwa, Spanish and English languages in the Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, at the Political and Administrative Science College. It also aims to find out which language demands more of their attention. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected into three-time stages by applying a questionnaire asking for students’ attitudes towards Kichwa, Spanish and English. Participants were asked about their language exposure in each of the mentioned languages. Answers were tabulated using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) program. The outcomes revealed a substantial difference in the students’ attitudes in favor of Spanish language. Students showed a high exposure and attitude percentage towards Spanish language through social interaction with native speakers. Additionally, they listened and read information in Spanish with the most accuracy. The participants have been exposed to Spanish more than 20 years, as well. Conversely, students do not show a significant attitude towards English or Kichwa. Additionally, their social and academic contexts do not demand that the students to speak Kichwa and English, as a priority in students’ daily communication.