Description
For all eligible persons aged 5 and older who indicated they spoke a language other than English at home (SPKOTHLANG), SPKENGWELL indicates their English proficiency level. Respondents were asked to choose if they spoke English very well, well, not well, or not at all. This is one of three language variables introduced in 2018 and it replaces OTHLANGWELL.
The question for SPKOTHLANG was asked of each person in the Response Unit during the round in which they entered the MEPS. Persons who answered yes to SPKOTHLANG were asked follow-up questions about which language they spoke (SPKWHTLANG) and their English proficiency level (SPKENGWELL).
Codes and Frequencies
Comparability
This variable is comparable over time.
Users should note that this variable is available for all participants in Panel 23 and forward. Participants in Panel 22 straddle the transition between language variables; those who entered the MEPS in Rounds 3-5 will have valid values for SPKENGWELL. Persons interviewed prior to Round 3 will have values for OTHLANGWELL and will be marked as NIU for this variable.
Universe
- 2018: All eligible persons age 5+ in Panel 23 or in Panel 22 and joined the MEPS family in rounds 3-5, who indicated they speak a language other than English at home (SPKOTHLANG).
- 2019-2023: All eligible persons age 5+ who indicated they speak a language other than English at home (SPKOTHLANG).
Availability
- 2018-2023
Weights
- 2018-2023 : PERWEIGHT
