The Center for English Learners (ELs) at AIR

Center

smiling student working on an assignment The core of AIR's work supporting English learners (ELs) is done through the Center for English Learners. ELs face the challenge of acquiring content knowledge in English at the same time as they acquire English as an additional language. These students can be supported by conducting rigorous research and evaluation to improve instruction and learning, evaluating policy to inform decision-making, and enhancing ELL practice at the district, school, and classroom level.

Conducting Rigorous Research

Research related to improving instruction and learning: AIR researchers conduct rigorous studies of instructional interventions in order to determine what works best for ELs.

Evaluation research: AIR experts evaluate federal, state, and district practices and policies affecting ELs and craft evidence-based recommendations for policymakers.

Connecting Research to Practice

EL specialists at AIR provide valuable technical assistance and professional development to help states and districts improve instruction and learning for ELs. We tailor our services to meet the specific needs of our clients.

Analyzing Policy and Related Work

The policy work of the Center for ELs currently focuses on analysis of state and federal policies and assistance to federal and state policymakers on issues relevant to ELs.

Related Projects

Project

Math and English Language Development for English Learners: (Project MELD)

Mastering math and the academic language of math is essential for all students, but especially for ELs, who are acquiring content knowledge and English proficiency concurrently. The goal of this three-year study funded by the Institutes of Education Sciences was to enable sixth-grade Spanish-speaking ELs to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to meet the new Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSS-M) and Literacy in the Technical Subjects (CCSS-L). The first two years of the study an iterative development process was used to refine the intervention, leading to a pilot study in the final study year.
Project

Study of English Language Learners in Massachusetts

Research by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has shown that the majority of English language learners (ELLs) who entered Massachusetts public schools in kindergarten were reclassified within three years; however, most still struggled with reading and math in later grades. AIR conducted research and analysis on Massachusetts state data that will provide a profile of ELLs and policy recommendations for improving their outcomes.

Project

EL Center's Technical Assistance Related to the Common Core State Standards

Currently, staff from the Center for English Learners are involved in technical assistance work related to the Common Core.