ESL617 Critical Issues of English Language Learners (2 cr.)

In this course ESL master’s degree candidates integrate their knowledge of current practices and policies in education of English learners with an understanding of historical and contemporary underlying immigration issues in American society.  Candidates choose a topic of interest to research in depth to demonstrate their ability to evaluate the role of schools as organizations within the larger community and the political context for integration of English learners in American society.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze past immigration policies in relation to American attitudes, employment possibilities, and educational practices.
2. Synthesize current policies regarding services to English learners with knowledge of past and current immigration trends.
3. Evaluate the role of schools as organizations within the larger community context for integration of English learners in American society.
4. Demonstrate the value of critical thinking and self-directed learning.
5. Create research questions or hypotheses related to policies that impact services to English learners.
6. Use APA style correctly.