Author(s): Robin Schwarz and Lynda Terrill

Institutional affiliation/Agency/Program: Schwarz: Consultant; Terrill: Center for Adult English Language Acquisition

Publication date or date of most recent update: June 2000

Number of pages: 1 page web document

Website URL: http://www.cal.org/caela/esl_resources/digests/ld2.html

Type of product: Literature review

Key words: Learning disabilities, English as a Second Language (ESL), Instructional approaches, Screening, Assistive technology

Targets: Instructors, Administrators, Researchers

Skill levels of instructional materials (lessons, curricula):
ESL Literacy (NRS Educational Functioning Level 1), Low Beginning ESL (NRS Educational Functioning Level 2), High Beginning ESL (NRS Educational Functioning Level 3), Low Intermediate ESL (NRS Educational Functioning Level 4), High Intermediate ESL (NRS Educational Functioning Level 5), Advanced ESL Literacy (NRS Educational Functioning Level 6)

Abstract: This digest reviews what is known about adult ESL learners and learning disabilities, suggests ways to identify and assess ESL adults who may have learning disabilities, and offers practical methods for both instruction and teacher training.

What the experts say: NOTE: This article has been reviewed by the Learning Disabilities and the English Language Acquisition Collection. Reviewer comments from both collections are included below.

This resource gives a straightforward overview of the concerns regarding identification of learning disabilities in adult learner populations for whom English is not their first language. It's a quick review with foundational information. The authors also provide valuable ideas for alternative assessment and LD-appropriate instruction for any students - native and non-native speakers - experiencing language and/or learning difficulties. The article is based on older research and illustrates the need for more funding for research in this area.

Please note - the article uses the term learning disabled rather than the more accepted term: a person who has a learning disability.