As a therapist working in an educational setting, I am constantly inspired by the progress I see in students. It's our collective goal at TinyEYE to provide the best possible online therapy services to schools, and understanding the latest research is crucial in achieving this. Today, I want to share insights from the research article "To what extent are Canadian second language policies evidence-based? Reflections on the intersections of research and policy" by Jim Cummins. This paper sheds light on the gaps between research findings and Canadian educational policies and offers valuable recommendations that can help us enhance our practice.
Understanding the Research
The research by Cummins (2014) highlights several critical areas where Canadian language policies fall short of being evidence-based. These include:
- Core and immersion programs for teaching French to Anglophone students
- Policies concerning the learning of English and French by students from immigrant backgrounds
- Heritage language teaching
- Education of Deaf and hard-of-hearing students
Implementing Research Outcomes in Practice
Here are some actionable steps we can take to improve our online therapy services based on the research findings:
1. Strengthening French Immersion Programs
Research indicates that Core French programs often produce minimal results. We should advocate for more effective alternatives like French immersion and Intensive French programs. As therapists, we can support these programs by incorporating language development strategies into our sessions, thus reinforcing what students learn in their immersion classes.
2. Supporting Immigrant Students
Many teachers and administrators lack access to effective instructional practices for students from immigrant backgrounds. We can bridge this gap by providing professional development focused on these practices and incorporating culturally responsive therapy techniques that respect and utilize students' linguistic backgrounds.
3. Promoting Heritage Languages
Encouraging the use of heritage languages in therapy sessions can help students maintain their cultural identity while also promoting bilingualism. We can create resources and activities that allow students to use their first language alongside English or French, thereby enhancing their overall language skills.
4. Enhancing Support for Deaf Students
The research underscores the importance of developing proficiency in natural sign languages for Deaf students. We should advocate for policies that support bilingual education in both sign language and spoken/written language, ensuring that Deaf students receive the comprehensive support they need.
Encouraging Further Research
It's vital for practitioners to stay informed and engaged with ongoing research. Here are a few ways to keep up:
- Attend workshops and conferences focused on language education and therapy.
- Join professional organizations that provide access to the latest research and resources.
- Collaborate with researchers to conduct studies within your practice, contributing to the broader body of knowledge.
By integrating these evidence-based practices and staying committed to ongoing research, we can significantly enhance the quality of our online therapy services and support the diverse needs of our students.To read the original research paper, please follow this
To what extent are Canadian second language policies evidence-based? Reflections on the intersections of research and policy.
