NNEST-EFL INTERSECTION SESSION

March 27, 2010

1:45 PM

 Boston Convention Center

Title: NNEST in the K-12: Issues and Practices

Abstract (46 words): This colloquium, designed for instructors of all linguistic background, assembles various professionals to explore the role of the NNEST in the K-12 system in the ESL and EFL context. Presenters will describe challenges and walk audience members through concreted strategies in a variety of settings.

Proposal (286 words): This colloquium, designed for instructors of all linguistic background, assembles six professionals to explore the role of the NNEST in the K-12 system in the ESL and EFL context from the perspective of an instructor, researcher, teacher trainer, and educational policy maker. It is hoped that in this discussion, audience participants will meet like-minded colleagues, exchange information, and share resources and strategies, building communities of mutual support.

George Braine (15 minutes): We will begin with an introduction analyzing the research history, theorizing NNEST status in the k-12 system and showthat the focus of research and publications on NNEST has been at the tertiary level. Yet, a large number of NNEST operate at the K-12 level. The case of primary and secondary English teachers in Hong Kong will be highlighted to support the need for more research at the K-12 level.

Davi Reis (15 minutes): The next presenter, an NNES teacher will discuss his experiences going through a teacher education program that did not address NNESTs’ needs and concerns, as well as the challenges of finding a K-12 teaching position in the US. He will conclude by offering suggestions to current pre-service NNESTs.

Tünde Csepelyi (15 minutes): The third presenter, as an NNEST, will discuss challenges and explain strategies for teaching at-risk middle school Latino students in the US.

Janet Orr (15 minutes): The fourth presenter will discuss training strategies that rely on effective instruction to help teachers overcome classroom constraints, administrative/societal pressures and lack of English in the students’ environment. Cases from Africa, South America and the Middle East will be presented for comparison.

Masaki Oda(15 minutes): The fifth presenter will discuss the interrelationship among educational policy, teacher training and hiring practices and make some recommendations to prospective teachers interested in teaching at Japanese elementary schools. Cases from other Asian countries will also be presented for comparison.

Aiden Yeh (15 minutes): The sixth presenter will discuss NNEST's attitudes toward teacher professional development, provide samples of effective online teacher training activities, and offer strategies to engage NNEST in enhancing their teaching skills.

Wrapping up (10 minutes):  George Braine

Total time: 1:40