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Using ESL Students' First Language to Promote College Success

Harry Cook

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Published in Using ESL Students First Language To Promote College Success: Sneaking The Mother Tongue Through The Backdoor (Routledge Research In Educational Equality And Diversity)

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English as a Second Language (ESL) students face unique challenges in college. They must not only learn the academic content of their courses, but also navigate the complexities of a new language and culture. This can be a daunting task, and can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and even failure.

Using ESL Students’ First Language to Promote College Success: Sneaking the Mother Tongue through the Backdoor (Routledge Research in Educational Equality and Diversity)

by Georges Polti

4.4 out of 5

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However, there is a growing body of research that shows that using ESL students' first language in college classrooms can actually promote their academic success and overall well-being.

Benefits of Using ESL Students' First Language

There are a number of benefits to using ESL students' first language in college classrooms, including:

Improved academic achievement. Studies have shown that ESL students who are allowed to use their first language in the classroom perform better academically than those who are not. This is because they are able to better understand the material and participate more fully in class discussions.
Increased engagement. ESL students who are able to use their first language in the classroom are more likely to be engaged in the learning process. This is because they are more comfortable asking questions and participating in discussions.
Reduced stress and anxiety. Using their first language can help ESL students to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which can interfere with their learning. This is because they are able to express themselves more easily and feel more confident in their ability to succeed.
Greater cultural understanding. Using ESL students' first language in the classroom can help to promote greater cultural understanding between students and their teachers. This is because it allows students to share their cultural perspectives and experiences with each other.

Challenges of Using ESL Students' First Language

While there are many benefits to using ESL students' first language in college classrooms, there are also some challenges that must be considered. These challenges include:

Potential for segregation. If ESL students are allowed to use their first language in the classroom, there is a risk that they will segregate themselves from other students. This can lead to a lack of interaction between ESL students and native English speakers, which can hinder their language development.
Limited resources. Many colleges and universities do not have the resources to provide instruction in multiple languages. This can make it difficult for ESL students to find classes that are taught in their first language.
Teacher training. Many teachers are not trained to teach ESL students. This can make it difficult for them to create a classroom environment that is supportive of ESL students' language learning needs.

Recommendations for Using ESL Students' First Language

Despite the challenges, there are a number of ways to use ESL students' first language in college classrooms in a way that promotes their success. These recommendations include:

Create a supportive classroom environment. Teachers should create a classroom environment that is welcoming and supportive of ESL students. This means being patient and understanding, and providing students with the resources they need to succeed.
Use a variety of teaching methods. Teachers should use a variety of teaching methods to appeal to the different learning styles of ESL students. This may include using visuals, hands-on activities, and group work.
Provide opportunities for students to use their first language. Teachers should provide opportunities for ESL students to use their first language in the classroom. This may include allowing them to write in their first language, participate in discussions in their first language, and present their work in their first language.
Collaborate with other teachers. Teachers should collaborate with other teachers to share ideas and resources for teaching ESL students. This can help to create a more supportive and effective learning environment for ESL students.

Using ESL students' first language in college classrooms can be a powerful tool for promoting their academic success and overall well-being. By creating a supportive classroom environment, using a variety of teaching methods, and providing opportunities for students to use their first language, teachers can help ESL students to reach their full potential.

Using ESL Students’ First Language to Promote College Success: Sneaking the Mother Tongue through the Backdoor (Routledge Research in Educational Equality and Diversity)

by Georges Polti

4.4 out of 5