61.086-1 - Preparing Preservice Teachers to Teach English Language Learners: Issues and Perspectives

• In Event: 61.086 - Roundtable Session 21

Session Type: Roundtable Session

Abstract

The persistent achievement gaps between English Language Learners (ELLs) and their non-ELL peers in public schools suggest an urgent need to examine how pre-service teachers are prepared to teach these learners. This symposium presents three perspectives to look into this issue at the teacher preparation program of a large Midwest university: a research perspective on the knowledge base that pre-service teachers need to effectively teach ELLs; a syllabi analysis to examine the knowledge and skills covered in the teacher preparation program; and a mixed methods study on teacher education program instructors’ practices and perspectives on pre-service teachers’ ELL learning and preparation. These analyses advance the agenda to prepare teachers who will ensure an appropriate schooling experience for ELLs.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Second Language Research

Chair

• Guofang Li, University of British Columbia

Papers

• Research Synthesis of What Preservice Teachers Need to Know to Teach English Language Learners - Guofang Li, University of British Columbia; Jose Martinez-Hinestroza, Michigan State University

• What Do Preservice Teachers Learn About English Language Learners From Their Teacher Education Courses? A Syllabi Analysis - Jose Martinez-Hinestroza, Michigan State University; Guofang Li, University of British Columbia; Yue Bian, University of Washington - Bothell

• Preparing Preservice Teachers for English Language Learners: Instructors' Practices and Perspectives - Yue Bian, University of Washington - Bothell; Jose Martinez-Hinestroza, Michigan State University; Guofang Li, University of British Columbia