Literature Review of Key Theories and Concepts for Observation of Latino Student
Abstract
The purpose of this literature review is to explore various factors that may influence Latino Student success in higher education. In this review, Critical Race Theory and Latino Critical Race Theory provide the framework to better explore the aspects of white power and privilege, culture, Institutional racism, identity, self-efficacy, and formation of identity. A better understanding of ethnic identity through the LatCrit theoretical lens may help practitioners, administrators, and policy makers better understand the unique needs of Latino college students in order to provide appropriate resources for support and to promote success. Overview The endeavor to better understand the Latino student profile in higher education is multidimensional, multifaceted, and progressive. Our academic institutions are home to Latinos from various social classes, immigration statuses, generational statuses, linguistic abilities, cultural orientations, and experiential knowledge. Due to the scope of this topic, researchers may need to be flexible in their assessments, measures, and analysis when making considerations and generalizations of the Latino student group in higher education. Critical Race Theory and Latino Critical Race Theory Specifically, the parameters the researcher has chosen for this study focus on the Latino student experience in higher education through the theoretical lens of Latino Critical Theory. Using this theoretical lens, the researcher reviewed literature on the following topics: (1) White power and privilege: The influence of dominant discourse and implicit rules to gain upward social mobility; (2) Culture: A review of the clashing social patterns between the dominant (White) culture and the subordinate (Latino) student culture. Furthermore, the research herein highlights the negotiations Latino students must navigate between the two different cultures in which he or she exists; (3) Institutional racism: The researcher looked at the role of the educational institution and how many keys to success may be embedded in invisible and implicit practices reinforced by dominant discourse and cultural attitudes by influential campus members; (4) Identity: The researcher reviewed literature on the negotiation and manipulation of power between the dominant and subordinate members of society.