Health Care Careers for English Learners

Hello colleagues, There is a current thread in our community focused on pre CNA training for English learners. I would like to broaden the discussion here.

In recent years, I have worked with health care faculty at the post secondary level who are finding it challenging to support the English learners in their classrooms. These are nursing instructors as well as instructors teaching courses in radiography and various other areas of health care for both degree and certificate programs. We know that English learners often struggle upon entering post secondary training programs and are more likely than other students to drop out as a result.

The I-BEST model, which Donna Price described in our pre CNA thread, has been shown to be highly successful in supporting English learners to achieve their career goals. At this link, you can read about the State of Washington's I-BEST Model.

I wanted to pass along another online resource that was designed by the folks at Lone Star Community College several years ago, Prescription for ESL Student Success. This resource is intended as supplemental support for English learners who are struggling in Lone Star Community College's nursing program. [It would be interesting to hear from our Texas colleagues who may be recommending this site to students and can report on its efficacy.]

I'm wondering what members think of a resource such as this, which might be drawn upon in an adult education career pathways program to prepare students who want to enter health care training at the post secondary level.

Thanks for offering your comments. If you are aware of other similar resources related to health careers or other careers, please share them with the community here.

Cheers, Susan Finn Miller

Moderator, AELL CoP