Unveiling the blueprint: the six building blocks of effective language programmes

By Olwethu Phoko

 

In contemporary educational landscapes, the diversity of student backgrounds poses challenges for language instruction, necessitating effective language programmes. A comprehensive exploration of this imperative is encapsulated in the findings of a systematic meta-review conducted by Jordi Casteleyn, Mathea Simons, and Professor Tom Smits from Antwerp University, Belgium. Professor Smits, who is also a Senior Research Associate in the Department of Secondary and Post-School Education at Rhodes University, presented the results of the review at a recent public lecture.

Financed by the Flemish Ministry of Education, their research project discerned six pivotal building blocks essential for crafting impactful language interventions.

Understanding the context: Flanders' linguistic landscape

The study unfolds against the backdrop of Flanders, Belgium, where Dutch serves as the language of instruction, and bilingual education lacks a legal framework. The Flemish project, "Students in Need of Extra Language Support," spans a spectrum from those with a foreign home language to students facing language development deficits or disabilities. Importantly, the project encompasses all years of compulsory education, from nursery levels to secondary education.

Methodological rigor: Unveiling the essence of effective language programmes for students who need extra language support

The research question guiding this endeavour was precise: What are the features of effective language programmes? Employing an umbrella review methodology, the researchers meticulously selected meta-analyses and systematic reviews (N=952) published between 2000 and 2020. The ensuing scrutiny resulted in the analysis of 33 studies, emphasising (quasi-)experimental designs, baseline equivalence, and a focus on language competence.

The six building blocks

The study distils its findings into six fundamental building blocks that epitomise effective language programmes. Its meticulous data analysis culminated in a comprehensive scientific report and a practitioner's guide. The practitioner's guide, grounded in the six building blocks, serves as a practical resource for educators. It addresses crucial elements such as duration, intensity, group selection, content, and monitoring, providing actionable insights for implementing effective language programmes.

The six building blocks are:

1. Education as a multi-layered approach: Recognising the intricate nature of language development, the researchers advocate for a multi-layered support model that addresses the diverse needs of students.
2. Step-by-step development of skills: The crafting of language programmes must adopt a logical progression, seamlessly integrating various sub-skills to foster comprehensive language development.
3. Focus on oral skills: Acknowledging the foundational role of oral language skills, effective programmes intentionally invest in developing listening and speaking abilities.
4. Literacy skills: The fourth building block underscores the importance of prioritising literacy skills, emphasising early technical reading and sustained focus on reading comprehension.
5. High-quality instruction: The quality of instruction plays a pivotal role in effective language programmes. Explicit teaching methods, clear demonstrations, and the provision of pertinent examples contribute to successful language development.
6. Monitoring student progress: Implementing continuous monitoring mechanisms is imperative for tracking student development. Timely support can be extended when needed, ensuring that students progress optimally.

Professor Smits shared practical examples tailored for primary and secondary education, illustrating the application of the six building blocks. These examples encompass tailored learning trajectories, integrating reading, writing, and oral language skills, optimising group discussions, and addressing points of interest for learners with reading difficulties.

Insights from the practitioner’s guide:

The practitioner's guide, derived from the research findings, underscores the significance of a step-by-step approach to effective language instruction. It advocates starting with a multi-layered support model, combining various sub-skills, investing in oral language skills, and maintaining a continuous focus on technical reading and reading comprehension. The guide recommends high-quality instruction, ongoing monitoring of student progress, and seeking support when needed.

The systematic meta-review by Prof. Smits and others offers a comprehensive blueprint for developing effective language programmes. The six building blocks serve as a guiding framework for educators, providing practical insights to address the diverse linguistic needs of students. By incorporating these insights, educators can create sustainable, intensive, and intentional language programmes that empower students to thrive in the language of instruction. The practitioner's guide, available for free download, serves as a valuable resource for educators globally, transcending national boundaries and fostering effective language instruction.