Multilingual Classrooms: Understanding Diversity as an Asset
Dr. Luigi Iannacci’s research focuses on using a student’s first language in meaningful ways
Dr. Luigi lannacci, a professor in Trent’s prestigious School of Education, and former elementary school teacher, says his research with students who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) shows that recognizing and using assets they already possess leads to success in classrooms. Using a student’s first language, for example, rather than viewing it as an impediment to learning English and providing context-rich learning opportunities that are meaningful and engaging helps CLD students flourish.
Professor Iannacci advocates for classrooms that are multilingual with items such as shelves, blackboards, and doors labelled in different languages and for the use of bilingual books.
“I marvel at the ways in which students and teachers can co-construct literacy teaching and learning in ways that allow for respect, reciprocity and responsiveness,” he says.
Professor Iannacci has worked with graduate students in Canadian Studies at Trent for his research.
The Trent School of Education will offer a full-time Masters’ of Education program in the fall of 2018 in addition to the already existing part-time stream. He says he’s looking forward to working with Trent M.Ed. students on future research.
Interest in Prof. Iannacci’s work has meant that he has been invited to do keynotes, workshops, and to work with teachers and schools nationally and internationally.
He’s inspired by the ways in which his work is being used to improve experiences CLD students have in schools. As a former early-years ESL student in Ontario, he says he’s heartened by the changes.
Learn more about the School of Education and the Master of Education at Trent.