Research profile

Louise Flood

PME in Post-Primary Education

Louise Flood taught English as a foreign language in the private sector in Dublin for five years. She also spent time teaching English abroad before undertaking her master’s. This sparked her interest in EAL learners in mainstream education, integration and inclusive education in a post-primary setting.

Research Paper Title

Teachers’ Perspectives of the Challenges Faced When Facilitating English as an Additional Language Student at Post-Primary Level

Abstract

Large-scale migration into Ireland has increased the number of students with English as an additional language (EAL) in post-primary schools. This study aimed to examine teacher perceptions about the challenges and supports in place for teaching EAL students. Using a questionnaire (N = 28) and semi-structured interviews (N = 2), two key themes emerged: 1) teacher training and support for teachers; and 2) learning and teaching strategies. These themes are discussed, with emphasis being placed on the need to create a truly inclusive environment where all students are afforded the same opportunity for educational success.

Biography

Louise Flood is currently a post-primary school teacher in Dublin working with students with special educational needs and learners with English as an additional language (EAL). She received a bachelor’s degree in business from Dublin Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in post-primary education from Hibernia College. She taught English as a foreign language in the private sector in Dublin for five years. She also spent time teaching English abroad before undertaking her master’s. This sparked her interest in EAL learners in mainstream education, integration and inclusive education in a post-primary setting.

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