Leveraging Bilingualism to Support the Whole Child with Dr. Elena Schmitt

Does maintaining their heritage language help students develop literacy skills in English? The research says “yes.”

Dr. Elena Schmitt, professor of applied linguistics and educational researcher, joins All For Literacy host Dr. Liz Brooke for a detailed discussion about how supporting a student’s bilingualism supports the whole child. From maintaining access to key cultural and social interaction to supporting English literacy acquisition, helping students maintain their first language is worth the effort.

Gain an understanding of:

• How to apply the research when it comes to supporting English language learning
• Actionable ways educators can support bilingual students in their classrooms
• Why the advice to “speak English at home” can be detrimental to students
• How to create an inclusive environment centered around translanguaging

Tune in to Episode 5 for an inspirational, research-backed discussion about how heritage languages, bilingualism, and translanguaging affect student identity and success. 

About Dr. Elena Schmitt

Dr. Elena Schmitt is a professor of applied linguistics and coordinator of the master’s in bilingual education and TESOL program at Southern Connecticut State University. Her research focuses on language contact, first language attrition, classroom interaction, teacher education, and technology-assisted teaching. 

Join our community of listeners at  All For Literacy today!