[Listen Again] Ep. 152: Science of Reading for ALL Students: Multilingual Learners with Claude Goldenberg
May 31, 2024
auto_awesome
Claude Goldenberg, professor emeritus of education at Stanford University, joins to uncover essential strategies for teaching multilingual learners. He dispels myths surrounding literacy education and addresses the common challenges faced in multilingual classrooms. The conversation emphasizes the cognitive similarities between learning for monolingual and multilingual students. Goldenberg dives into the significance of phonemic awareness and fluency, advocating for well-informed practices that embrace the science of reading, ultimately aiming for academic success for all learners.
Claude Goldenberg emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching practices to meet the diverse needs of multilingual learners for effective literacy education.
The science of reading applies equally to multilingual learners, necessitating the use of evidence-based practices to create inclusive programming.
Understanding the connections between phonology, orthography, and semantics is crucial for supporting emergent bilinguals in developing reading skills.
Deep dives
Understanding English Learners Terminology
The conversation starts by clarifying the terminology related to learners from multilingual backgrounds, such as English learners, emergent bilinguals, and multilingual learners. These terms have evolved over time, reflecting a shift towards more positive and inclusive language. Claude Goldenberg emphasizes that despite the nuances in terminology, these labels refer to students who come from homes where a language other than English is spoken and are not yet fully proficient in English. He highlights that educators must adapt their teaching practices to meet the unique needs of these learners, ensuring they have access to engaging academic content.
Science of Reading and Multilingual Learners
The discussion delves into the 'science of reading' and its implications for multilingual learners. Goldenberg asserts that while much of the existing research on literacy has focused on monolingual individuals, there is substantial evidence supporting effective practices for English learners. He stresses that the science of reading applies to all learners, including those from multilingual backgrounds, and points out the importance of using evidence-based practices. With a wealth of research available, it is crucial for educators to utilize insights from these studies to create inclusive reading programs that cater to diverse linguistic needs.
Brain Function and Language Processing
Goldenberg further explains the brain's capacity for processing languages, emphasizing that bilingual and multilingual learners do not require fundamentally different teaching methods. Instead, they may need additional support in connecting phonology, orthography, and semantics when learning to read in a new language. He notes that while the structure of the brain remains the same, the challenges arise when these learners are exposed to vocabulary and concepts in a second language. Direct instruction that emphasizes these connections is vital in helping students develop a comprehensive understanding of reading and literacy.
Effective Strategies for Teaching Literacy
Addressing literacy instruction for English learners, Goldenberg encourages the use of systematic, explicit, and effective instructional strategies. Effective practices involve not only teaching phonics and vocabulary but also providing background knowledge to enhance comprehension. He mentions interventions that have demonstrated success when adapted for English learners, highlighting the critical role of understanding word meanings and context in developing literacy skills. Goldenberg stresses the importance of making connections visible and explicit for students to foster their language development and support their reading journey.
The Importance of Research and Informed Practices
In concluding thoughts, Goldenberg emphasizes the need for educators and advocates to stay informed about research pertaining to both multilingual learners and the science of reading. He expresses concern over the disconnect between different factions within literacy education, where some knowledge is disregarded due to minority biases. Goldenberg calls for a comprehensive understanding of effective instructional practices that cater to all learners and the importance of integrating various research findings. Ultimately, this holistic approach will facilitate higher literacy levels and academic success for all students.
Unlock the potential in every multilingual learner as Claude Goldenberg, renowned professor emeritus of education at Stanford University, joins us to dispel myths and share crucial strategies in literacy education. Delve into the complexities of teaching reading to students mastering English, where educational rights meet the science of literacy. We promise a journey through the nuances of vocabulary acquisition and orthographic mapping, with Goldenberg guiding us to make academic content accessible without compromising on language development.
Ever wondered how the science of reading translates to multilingual classrooms? Look no further. We address the probabilistic nature of literacy learning, akin to the varied responses to a COVID-19 vaccine, and examine the relevance of neurolinguistics research for English learners. In a thought-provoking discussion, we challenge the notion that teaching strategies for monolingual and multilingual learners are worlds apart, instead highlighting their fundamental similarities and the necessity for a nuanced approach.
Join us as we navigate the foundations of reading development and learn how to best support emergent bilinguals. From the ARIES study to the pivotal role of phonemic awareness and fluency, we uncover the intricacies of teaching emergent bilingual children to read. Emphasizing the latest research, this episode is a clarion call for educators and advocates to embrace collaborative, well-informed practices in literacy education, ensuring that every learner's path to reading fluency is as effective and enlightened as possible.
