The right course? An exploratory study of learner placement practices in ESOL and literacy

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This study set out to answer the question: How do ESOL or bilingual learners get placed or place themselves in literacy and/or ESOL classes? While colleges or centres in multilingual cities or neighbourhoods might have well-developed ESOL provision, their literacy classes also show huge linguistic diversity. At around Entry 3 and Level 1 in the National Qualifications Framework, bilingual learners might end up studying in either. The study has found that the boundary between ESOL and literacy is not clear-cut, and that the range of learning needs encompassed by the two subject areas is more complex than a rigid distinction can allow for. The findings and implications expressed here stem from this overall conclusion.

James Simpson, Melanie Cooke and Mike Baynham (March 2008) The right course? An exploratory study of learner placement practices in ESOL and literacy. NRDC: London

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