This handbook begins with a brief discussion of Vietnamese religion, values, characteristics, and customs, and then describes the educational system of Vietnam and the behavioral expectations for its children. The third section of this handbook discusses the adjustments and conflicts faced by Vietnamese refugee children. Finally, some educational suggestions are presented which focus primarily on administrative concerns and the learning of English. Appendices include six bibliographies: (1) Indochinese Refugee Guides; (2) Vietnamese History, Literature, and Folklore; (3) English as a Second Language Teaching Materials; (4) Bilingual and Vietnamese Materials: K-12; (5) Bilingual/Bicultural Education and Materials; and (6) Reading on Bilingual/Bicultural Evaluations. (MK)

This handbook describes the background, characteristics, and education and language needs of Vietnamese-speaking students in the United States. The handbook was designed to increase understanding of the Vietnamese language and culture among bilingual education specialists and other school personnel, especially in the California public schools. Section 1 describes patterns of Vietnamese immigration and settlement in the United States, particularly in California; the nature and quality of the immigrants' education in Vietnam; and their attitudes toward education in Vietnam. Section 2 discusses literacy programs in Vietnam, Vietnamese attitudes toward literacy, and patterns of English and Vietnamese usage among the Vietnamese in California. Section 3 analyzes the linguistic characteristics of and cultural influences on the Vietnamese language, and their implications for English instruction for Vietnamese in California. Section 4 discusses instructional and curricular strategies for Vietnamese students with limited English-speaking ability. Appendices include lists of references, educational and community resources, enrollment data on Vietnamese-speaking students in California school districts, and a Vietnamese linguistic table. (Author/MJL)