The Power of the Asset-Oriented Perspective

Adult language learners bring many strengths and resources to the learning enterprise. Asset-oriented instruction recognizes these and uses them to create a positive, empowering environment that engages learners directly. By identifying and valuing the linguistic, cultural, and technical knowledge that adult learners possess, an asset-oriented curriculum moves intentionally from a focus on achievement gaps to a focus on potential for goal achievement.

This interactive presentation defines the principles of asset-oriented instruction and outlines ways of recognizing and using adult learners’ strengths and knowledge in language learning contexts. By inviting participants to explore the difference between an asset-oriented approach to curriculum development and more traditional approaches, the presentation invites them to make informed choices regarding the use of learner assets as the basis for classroom activities. Session participants gain a clear understanding of what asset-oriented instruction is, how they can identify and build on their own learners’ assets, how they can apply translanguaging as a strategy, and how they can use the asset-oriented approach to develop curriculum and learning activities in their own language teaching contexts.

All of Deborah Kennedy’s presentations use an interactive approach that engages participants in connecting new knowledge and skills to their own contexts. Presentations are one hour in length and can take place in face-to-face, online, or hybrid formats.