As part of its ESL licensure program, NCSU requires a course which examines the complexity of multiculturalism in American society and the challenges faced by immigrant families in adapting to U.S. institutions. Taught by Robin Kube, Lecturer in ESL and ESL Licensure Program Assistant, the course includes submitting a research paper on important issues in ESL education. Below are brief summaries of four exemplar papers from the past two semesters which contain a wealth of insightful and detailed information of value to ESL educators around the state.


Resources for ESL Families in Forsyth County
by Nonkosi Bongweni

This paper discusses different sources of help available  for immigrants in Forysth County.  They range from education to community services. They are designed and rendered to make sure that  the parents become educated and part of the community as well as being part of their children's education.
Link to paper


Collinswood Language Academy: A Bilingual Education
Success Story
by Jill Davison

Collinswood Language Academy was once considered a low-performing school by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.  After receiving a federal grant to implement a dual language immersion program, the school faced many challenges and obstacles.  However, with the vision and determination of the principal, Maria Petrea, Collinswood is now recognized nationally and considered a North Carolina Honor School of Distinction.
Link to paper


Impact of NCLB’s Yearly Assessments On English Language Learners
by Maureeen McInnis

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 is a hot issue among educators and particularly for those accountable for the education of students with limited English proficiency. How NCLB impacts the education of these students is of paramount consideration. "Research shows that students who cannot read or write in English have a greater likelihood of dropping out of school, and they often face a lifetime of diminished opportunity"(National Center for Education Statistics 2001). Is NCLB , with its mandated yearly assessments a step in the right direction or is it serving to leave these students further and further behind? This paper will focus on answering this very important question.
Link to paper


Using the Native Language in the ESL Classroom
by Ginger Phillips Mole

It has long been expected that English, and English only, will be the instructional language of an ESL classroom.  But is this really the best teaching practice?  What if your students are adults wishing to acquire another language, not children? This paper looks specifically at the argument for and against the development of native language maintenance programs that provide bilingual instruction (in the native language and English) for adult community college students in North Carolina.
Link to paper


Illegal Immigrants in Community Colleges: Yes or No?
by Lisa C. Neisler

Should Illegal Aliens be allowed to attend Community Colleges? This "hot button" topic has no easy answer with compelling arguments from either side. This article explores both sides of the debate.
Link to paper