This presentation will focus on methods of supporting students with special needs within language learning classrooms. Often times it is challenging to identify whether a learning disability is present when a learner is acquiring an additional language. This project will highlight several case studies of students learning English and experiencing difficulties socially and academically. The emphasis will be on utilizing culturally-competent strategies for collaborating with families and school professionals to clarify a student's strengths as well as needs. The session will share examples of strengths-based approaches which successfully supported individuals and families within international schools.
The aims of this session are to:
- explore the meaning and relevance of cultural competence
- share strategy models for collaborative practices with families
- discern how to implement support based on the learner’s social and academic background
