
Creating authentic learning experiences for ELs with Dr. Carol Salva
From Highest Aspirations by Ellevation Education
August 26, 2025 · 36 min · Season 15 · Episode 1
About this episode
Dr. Carol Salva discusses strategies for creating authentic learning experiences for English learners and supporting their development in the classroom.
Season 15 of Highest Aspirations begins with Dr. Carol Salva, author of Boosting Achievement. In this episode, Dr. Salva shares updated strategies from the new edition of her book designed to support English learners, newcomer students, and students with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE). She discusses practical tools educators can use to accelerate language development, build student confidence, and create welcoming classroom environments that foster belonging and success. Key questions we address: Why was a second edition of the book Boosting Achievement necessary? How can educators best support multilingual learners and maintain hope during challenging societal times? What does an "authentic learning experience" look like in practice, and how can teachers create one? For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here . Dr. Salva’s website: https://salvac.edublogs.org/ Order Dr. Salva’s second edition of Boosting Achievement The Circuit and Breaking Through by Dr. Francisco Jimenez DIY PD a Guide to Self-Directed Learning for Educators of Multilingual Learners by Katie Toppel, Tan Huynh, Carol Salva ML Summit Subscribe to our…
People in this episode
Guest: Dr. Carol Salva
Topics covered
- authentic learning experiences
- supporting English learners
- language development
- classroom environments
- multilingual learners
- educational strategies
Keywords
- English learners
- multilingual education
- classroom strategies
- language development
- student confidence
- SLIFE
- educational tools
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Ellevation Education
Books & works: Boosting Achievement, The Circuit, Breaking Through, DIY PD a Guide to Self-Directed Learning for Educators of Multilingual Learners
More episodes of Highest Aspirations
- Centering indigenous voices in education with Georgina Owen · November 6, 2025 · 28 min
- Sustaining EL success through teacher leaders with Dr. Michelle Benegas · October 21, 2025 · 33 min
- Effective coaching for teachers of English learners with Paula Polk · October 7, 2025 · 29 min
- Student agency through academic languaging with Dr. Margo Gottlieb and Dr. Gisela Ernst-Slavit · September 23, 2025 · 31 min
- Organizing a summer newcomer program with Sarah Whitfield · September 9, 2025 · 34 min
- Igniting real change for English learners with Carly Spina · June 3, 2025 · 40 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Highest Aspirations podcast page.