Dual Language Learners and Executive Function
The population of young dual language learners (DLLs) with disabilities in the United States continues to increase (U.S. Census Bureau, 2015). Researchers who have studied both executive function (EF) and DLL have found that linguistically responsive practices can be a strength to build EF skills in young children who are DLLs. Specifically, inhibition, working memory, and shift components are utilized more frequently in children who are DLLs (Bialystok & Martin, 2004; Carlson & Meltzoff, 2008; Gathercole, et al., 2014). Despite the robust research documenting the benefits of early bilingualism/second language acquisition, most DLLs do not receive linguistically responsive instruction that incorporate EF skills as a learning tool for these children.
This Learning Deck will share information from the latest research on EF skills and all young children, describe linguistically responsive practices to scaffold EF skills in children with disabilities, and will conclude with implications for practice to the field. Participants will be provided a list of linguistically responsive EF activities for young children, ages birth to five.
Participant Outcomes: Participants will increase knowledge about supporting EF skills of young children who are DLLs and gain knowledge about linguistically responsive practices to support these children.
Presenters: Serra Acar, PhD, and Patricia M Blasco, PhD
Serra Acar, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She has worked in the field for more than 10 years. Her research includes culturally and linguistically responsive assessment, executive function and bilingual/dual language learners, and personnel preparation in early intervention/early childhood special education (EI/ECSE).
Patricia M Blasco, PhD, The Research Institute at Western Oregon University (WOU) and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), directs Project EF: Executive Function in Infants and Toddlers Born Low Birth Weight (LBW) and Preterm, funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) and the Ford Foundation. Her research focuses on neurodevelopmental disabilities and supportive interventions for young children and their families.