Research on English Learners

Ideally, policy and practice are informed by rigorous research that aims to strengthen our understanding of how ELs learn best. Over the past five years, we have seen more research confirming the efficacy of dual language immersion programs for supporting ELs’ academic and linguistic growth, reaffirming that parents should continue to speak in their home languages with their children, and spotlighting effective strategies for enhancing ELs’ english language development. Yet, many studies are tucked away in academic journals and written for academic audiences. The resources included here aim to translate academic research and offer strategies for connecting research, policy and practice.

For a comprehensive examination of research on ELs, please see the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine consensus report Promoting the Educational Success of Children and Youth Learning English: Promising Futures.