Date

Fall 2023

ESRP 9000 Professor

Linda Gaughan, Ph.D.

ESRP 9001 Professor

Linda Gaughan, Ph.D.

Executive Summary

This strategic research project was designed to provide a means of meeting the needs of the newcomer English language learner population in the classroom. English language learners are the fastest growing population in the education system. Many of these students are affected by various background factors that affect their ability to learn both the language and content being taught in the classroom. The Miami Dade County Public School District, like other school districts in the country, is faced with the challenges of providing these students with an education that is equal to their peers. A review of the strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities of the district using a SWOT analysis showed a deficiency in meeting the needs of these students. Through review of the literature, it was determined that scaffolding curriculum would be the most effective way of meeting some of the challenges faced by these English language learners.

After completing a Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) the best strategy to be used in achieving this goal was deemed to be using the universal design for learning (UDL). An action plan was developed to carry out the implementation of the strategy. This included (a) the pre and post evaluations, (b) training teachers in the use of ULD (c) implementation of the strategy, and (d) making necessary changes. Because teachers may be resistant to the changes, it is recommended that continuous professional development be carried out throughout the implementation period and collaboration should be ongoing among stakeholders to make the transition easier and to ensure that delivery of content does not suffer. The literature analyzed strongly supports helping teachers to be comfortable in using these strategies in the classroom.

Document Type

Strategic Research Project-NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

College

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education

Language

English

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