EDTS 548 - Integrating Native and Heritage Speakers in the Language Classroom

Linguistic diversity is an ever-increasing reality in the 21st-century classroom. Considering the large influx of immigrant students and the growth of ESL education programs, teachers in all grades and subject areas must be prepared to create culturally diverse classrooms that support and encourage students from a variety of linguistic backgrounds.

In this course, you will explore the latest terminology and instructional techniques used to support ESL students and native and heritage speakers in all types of classrooms. You’ll develop strategies for making your classroom more linguistically inclusive and create a toolkit that will help you support these students regardless of their experience with English. In addition, you’ll take a deep-dive look into how you can incorporate tools and approaches such as the language experience approach (LEA), project-based learning (PBL), the cognitive apprenticeship approach, reflective journaling, and concept development and attainment.

Using the techniques from this course, you’ll be equipped to create scaffolded, differentiated lessons that will meet the needs of all language learners and foster a more inclusive classroom and school where these students feel nurtured, supported, and encouraged to succeed.