Article

Trucha Camp Critical Consciousness Training Of Latinos: A Qualitative Study To Understand The Success Of Underserved Urban Students

This qualitative study examined if the Trucha Camp critical consciousness leadership physical education program contributed to Latino students’ success. Critical Consciousness Pedagogy (CCP) was the Freirean theoretical framework implemented in the program to understand if any participants experienced conscientização or an awakening free from oppression through dialogue, reflection, awarness, and praxis (Freire, 2000). There is a body of literature that supports the positive effects CCP has on marginalized students’ success in curriculum such as math, reading, and writing from elementary to college levels. I piloted the praxis of CCP concepts in the Trucha Camp program. The origin of the name was an effort to increase culturally responsive methods to a student body where the majority was of Latino ancestry. The word Trucha is Spanish for trout and is California’s state fish. It also means critical consciousness. I explored what effects CCP have on Latino students’ character development, leadership, and critical thinking. The study included eight participants (two males and six females). They were 18 years of age or older. Data were collected through open-ended interviews. Ultimately, the results were encouraging. The students overwhelmingly agreed the program contributed to their success in school. It also influenced decision making at home and work. The Trucha code of conduct G.R.T. (good, right, and true) and the Trucha code of ethics Agape love were the most significant iii contributors. Future implications suggest that CCP training are critical factors for future teacher preparation programs and crucial component in fostering Latino students’ success.

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