Title: Open-entry, Self-paced ESL Classes with
Computerized Instructional Support
College: West Hills Community College District
College Contact:
Cathy Barabe,
Director Grants, Research and Planning
300 Cherry Lane, Coalinga, CA 93210
(559) 934-2147 or
cathybarabe@westhillscollege.com
Description:
The District
serves a highly Hispanic, first generation U.S. community. Many
residents are primarily Spanish speaking yet desire to access
community college education and training. The goal of this practice
is to assist students to gain enough English mastery to mainstream
into traditional community college classes. Each semester the
college offers morning and evening ESL classes that accept any level
of proficiency.
The instructor works with small groups to teach the variable mastery
levels. When not working with the instructor, students have access
to computerized ESL software that allows them to gain proficiency in
computer literacy and to reinforce their language acquisition
skills.
One ESL teacher is responsible for the instruction and more advanced
students work with newcomers. The classroom is equipped desks and
computers and a wide range of ESL developmental software.
Instruction includes traditional lecture format, small group
instruction, or two students may share a computer. Each semester the
students are encouraged to purchase a Spanish-English dictionary and
a moderately priced textbook.
To market the classes, the instructor visits the local Adult school
program to recruit students, and also works with the international
student programs on campus. Referrals primarily come by word of
mouth from the students who are successfully taking or have
completed the ESL classes.
Within three to four semesters, students are prepared to enroll in
basic classes offered by the college.