EDRD 570 - Sociocultural Foundations for Teaching Multilingual Learners

Credits: (3)

Instructional Method: Internet-Deliverable/Web-Based
Prerequisites: Admission to Graduate College or permission of the instructor
Cross-Listed: EDUC 670

This course examines how culture, identity, migration experiences, language development, and sociopolitical contexts influence the schooling of multilingual learners (MLs). Candidates analyze cultural variables in second-language acquisition, acculturation, culturally responsive instruction, and systemic barriers affecting MLs. Emphasis is placed on instructional decision-making, collaboration with families and communities, and professional advocacy aligned to current ESOL standards and Virginia requirements.

Note(s): EDUC 670 is currently a required course in the Curriculum and Instruction M.S. program and serves approximately 15-25 graduate students a year. Moving forward, we hope to offer at least 1 section of this course each summer.

Once approved, we will propose co-listing EDRD 570 for EDUC 670 . This course better meets the needs of our Reading Specialists students, while providing much-needed opportunities for specialization within literacy.

Listing the course at the 500-level would make it a graduate course that undergraduate students could take before starting the graduate program if they’re interested in an ESOL certificate or in working toward their Reading Specialist endorsement.