A cross-college team is assessing how to expand TCC’s English Language Learning Program (ELLP) using a One College approach to ensure students have a similar experience and a high level of service on whichever campus they attend.
“By expanding out ELLP with this commitment to unity, we aim to better serve the needs of our vibrant community, empowering students on their educational journey,” said Zarina Blankenbaker, President at TCC Northwest and ELLP Cabinet Lead.
“This effort will better align the staffing structure of our program and identify the resources we need in advancing our goal of expanding our reach,” Blankenbaker continued. “We are dedicated to equipping our community with the linguistic and cultural competencies they need to succeed, ensuring that not only are they prepared for the workforce but are also global citizens ready to make a positive impact.”
ELLP helps students to improve their English language skills for jobs, studies and enhancing the quality of their lives. ELLP offers three tracks for students:
- English as a Second Language (ESL) – includes workforce and pre-academic courses.
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) – aimed at preparing students for college-level courses.
- Language Pathway Program (LPP) – helps F1 international students build the English language skills needed to be successful in college-level courses in the U.S.
While ESL and ESOL courses have long been taught at TCC, the ELLP program name was adopted in 2019. The Language Learning Pathway was then soft-launched at TCC Southeast in 2020 and has since expanded to other campuses.
The team has examined the ELLP user experience to identify program highlights needed to create a unified experience for students. A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis has also been conducted.
Additional work includes a deep dive into student data and an analysis of ELLP structure and resources.
“A unified English Language Learning Program will streamline language education and acquisition for our students,” said Zena Jackson. “We’re not just shaping proficient speakers but empowering students with a universal tool for success in academia and beyond.”
Future work will focus on creating a current state report, communicating the work with internal and external stakeholders and working on a One College proposal for ELLP.