Work

Academic English Language Screeners: Gatekeepers for Multilingual Learners

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: This article describes the gatekeeping nature of academic English language screeners for multilingual learners. It highlights inequities in current English learner identification practices, advocates for universal academic language screening, and emphasizes the need for teacher training to support academic language development for all students, regardless of home language background. CONCLUSION: The article argues that more equitable and comprehensive identification practices, paired with strengthened teacher training, are essential to ensure that all students receive appropriate language support and are not disadvantaged by current screening systems.

Source: Journal of Speech Language and Hearing Research

DOI: 10.1044/2026_jslhr-25-00903

Authors: Jeannette Mancilla-Martinez, Phoebe J. Ahn, Bhabika Joshi

Institution: Vanderbilt University

Language: English

Topic: Multilingual Education and Policy

Subfield: Linguistics and Language

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7170031168

FWCI: 20.87

Cites: 14

Cited by: 1

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