Conference Recap: Region II Head Start Association (2022)
Conference Recap: Region II Head Start Association
November 13-17, 2022
San Juan, PR
The Exceptional Coaching for Early Language and Literacy (ExCELL) team, led by Dr. Carol Hammer and Dr. Barbara Wasik (Temple Univesity), presented on the ExCELL professional development program and strategies for supporting language and literacy development in young dual language learners (DLLs). Summary of the two conference sessions can be found below. The ExCELL team also hosted an exhibition booth to network with early childhood educators. DLL lab member, Curran Mahowald played a pivotal role in supporting this successful exhibition. This conference marks the team's latest efforts in scaling up the evidence-based professional development program for teachers of young DLLs. The ExCELL team had a great time connecting with members of the Region II Head Start community in San Juan, Puerto Rico!
If you are interested in learning about how to bring the ExCELL professional development program to your school, please contact Dr. Carol Hammer (carol.hammer@tc.columbia.edu).
Wasik, B.A. & Hammer, C.S. (2022, November 13-17). Coaching teachers to develop dual language learners’ vocabulary [Conference workshop]. Region II Head Start Conference, San Juan, PR.
Early vocabulary development is the foundation of literacy development. For children who are dual language learners (DLLs), vocabulary development in both languages is critical for their reading success. Early childhood educators can support vocabulary development in the classroom by providing meaningful opportunities for children to learn and use new words throughout the day. This presentation discussed how early childhood educators of DLLs can implement evidence-based strategies for building vocabulary in both languages. Attendees learned 1) about a coaching model that supports teachers in using evidence-based vocabulary strategies with DLL students; 2) criteria for selecting vocabulary for developmentally appropriate instruction; and 3) strategies for introducing vocabulary during book reading and reinforced during other daily activities. The presentation included video examples of teachers effectively implementing strategies in real time and opportunities for participants to create a short lesson plan for using these strategies for DLL students.
Hammer, C.S. & Wasik, B.A. (2022, November 13-17). Promoting dual language learners' language and early literacy skills through an evidence-based professional development [Conference session]. Region II Head Start Conference, San Juan, PR.
Preschool children’s oral language and early literacy skills serve as the foundation for later reading and academic skills. Research has revealed instructional strategies that strengthen the language abilities of monolingual children and dual language learners. This presentation discussed evidence-based strategies that teachers can use in their classrooms. Attendees 1) learned about a professional development program created to help teachers strengthen children’s early language and literacy skills, which includes online training modules and remote coaching; 2) learned evidence-based instructional strategies such as engaging children in sustained conversations, integrating vocabulary instruction throughout the day with visual aides, and using children’s home languages to support English development; and 3) encountered sample materials for integrating the strategies in their classrooms. Finally, this presentation discussed teacher feedback on the professional development program and how its design results in changes in classroom quality and child outcomes.