This analysis considers the circumstances of Southeast Asian refugee immigration following the Vietnam War as well as the political and social environment in the U.S. upon their arrival, in order to examine the historical factors that link to their subsequent educational trends. Receptive government policies enabled these communities to survive; however, with the exception of first-wave Vietnamese refugees, their limited job skills, English language knowledge, and education upon arrival were exacerbated by overall prejudiced societal reception and the lack of an existing co-ethnic community to buffer their entry into U.S. society. All groups have generally experienced low academic achievement except in the case of Vietnamese Americans, for whom a notable contingent demonstrates higher attainment. Implications for subsequent generations, and for research and practice, are discussed.
Despite one-dimensional stereotypes and barriers experienced by Asian American women, many have achieved prominence. We know very little about these stories, their lives, or what helped them to achieve beyond expectations. Based on the Productive Giftedness Model, the article identifies the common traits and supportive conditions that influence their success. To help illustrate these experiences, the article highlights the lives of 10 notable Asian American women across diverse professions. These women displayed "productive giftedness" as girls; they were accomplished, determined, and skillful early on, which led to excellence, awards, and leadership opportunities. Many also had supportive conditions including the investment of one or more adults. Parents, teachers, and mentors can further enhance these opportunities for Asian American girls. These general principles can be learned and applied to other groups as well. Supporting individual, instructional, and environmental factors can influence learning and achievement for girls in the early and school years.
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