2025 Iowa Adult Education and Literacy Summer Conference

In this interactive session, educators will discover how ChatGPT can be an invaluable tool in supporting adult English Language Learners (ELLs). We will begin by introducing ChatGPT and its capabilities, giving teachers a foundational understanding of this powerful AI tool. Then, we will dive into practical, classroom-ready strategies for using ChatGPT to enhance language skills, from vocabulary building and grammar practice to writing exercises and conversational fluency.

Attendees will learn how to tailor ChatGPT’s responses to support differentiated learning, providing individualized practice for students at various proficiency levels. We'll explore real-world examples of integrating ChatGPT into classroom activities, including guided writing tasks, role-playing scenarios, and interactive language games.
The session will also address potential challenges and ethical considerations, such as data privacy and ensuring content accuracy, while offering solutions to mitigate these concerns. By the end of the session, participants will be empowered with concrete resources, tips, and strategies to effectively integrate ChatGPT into their adult ELL programs, fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

As the demand for accessible learning options grows, online programs have become an essential component of adult English Language Learning (ELL) education. This session will share our experience developing and structuring DMACC ELL online classes, using data to highlight their impact, and offering practical strategies for success.
Attendees will gain insights into:

• The evolution of our online adult ELL program and key lessons learned.
• How we structure courses to enhance student success and retention.
• Key data points highlighting student progress and attendance in online courses.
• Ways our online program address common barriers to participation.
• Practical tips and strategies for effective online ELL instruction.

This session will provide takeaways for educators looking to improve or expand their online ELL offerings. Whether you are new to online teaching or seeking to refine your approach, this presentation will equip you with effective strategies to create meaningful learning experiences for adult ELL students in a virtual environment.

Engaging English language learners at non- or low-literacy levels presents unique challenges. From getting learners through the door on that first day to keeping them engaged, both recruitment and retention require thoughtful, targeted strategies. Teachers also face the difficulty of finding appropriate materials to meet address learners’ specific needs. This session explores how to meet students where they are, build foundational skills, and foster long-term success. Join us as we discuss practical approaches for supporting one of the most challenging—yet inspiring—groups of learners in their English language journey.

Student retention begins with a sense of belonging. This session explores practical, research-based strategies for creating inclusive, supportive learning environments for beginning English Language Learners (ELLs). Participants will explore how fostering community in the classroom promotes student engagement, persistence, and success. Through interactive discussion and examples, attendees will leave with tools to build connection, reduce isolation, and improve retention among ELL students from day one.

This session will help participants understand further the needs of the community-based program and how it functions.

ESL students’ home languages are considered linguistic assets that teachers can build upon. But, what happens when students have limited literacy in their home language due to war, poverty, refugee status, etc.? These literacy students are sometimes referred to as SLIFE (Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education) and often require additional support, as they often do not have foundational literacy skills to transfer from one language to another.
 
In this session, we will learn about the unique needs of literacy learners and how their educational backgrounds impact language acquisition. We will also consider ways that ESL teachers can provide instructional scaffolds and supports to accommodate literacy students.  While examples from Cambridge Ventures curriculum will be given, all attendees– regardless of which curriculum they use -- will be given practical, easy-to-implement strategies to better reach and teach this population.