Technology-Enhanced Supports for English Learners

In this GLR Learning Tuesdays session, CGLR welcomed experts to explore how digital tools can most effectively supplement and strengthen instruction for English Learners (ELs). Our conversation, moderated by Amaya Garcia of New America emphasized that “too often [EL] students are viewed from a deficit perspective that frames their educational needs as problems to be solved,” underscoring the critical need for our collective work.

Panelists provided crucial advice on the strategic implementation of educational technology, arguing that decisions must be driven by pedagogical expertise rather than the technology itself. Steve Sofranas, M.Ed., of Ellevation Education encouraged empowering local teams, like EL administrators, who know their students best, reminding attendees that we must start with the goal we are trying to achieve. He reinforced the neutrality of technology with an insight drawn from Noam Chomsky, “The hammer doesn’t care whether it’s used to build a house or whether a torturer uses it to injure somebody.” Similarly, Robyn Edwards, Ph.D., of Western Michigan University, sharing insights from her research on AI-powered translation earbuds, found that while devices can increase participation and access, implementation must be grounded in teacher expertise. She offered a key takeaway, “Skilled human teachers beat machines when instruction is already well scaffolded.”

When considering broad implementation, panelists urged systems to ensure technology serves all students, especially those furthest from resources. Veronica Benavides, Ed.L.D., of Bilingual Generation noted that “just because we implement an EdTech tool doesn’t mean it will reach every student — particularly those at the margins.” This necessity for balanced implementation aligns with the insights shared by Havala Hansen, Ph.D., of Evergreen Analytics, LLC, who reflected on the accelerating technological environment by stating, “We’re all immigrants in the world of AI”— highlighting that while innovation is rapid, implementation must remain flexible while balancing the need for consistency.