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AIM Institute for Learning & Research

AIM Institute received a Reimagine Education Gold Award in the Science of Learning category at the December 2020 conference for our AIM Pathways digital teacher training platform. 

 

Reimagine Education Shortlist Recognition
 
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Who are these modules recommended for?

AIM creates Specialized Reading Knowledge courses for individuals who already possess a strong foundational knowledge in Science of Reading and Structured Literacy, and are interested in expanding their instructional skills and knowledge. Please note that comprehensive structured literacy training (such as Pathways to Proficient Reading) is strongly recommended before enrolling in these specialized learning opportunities. If you are new to the science of reading and structured literacy, explore AIM Pathways courses to expand your foundational knowledge before diving into this next level of professional learning.

This course is intended for classroom teachers teaching all subjects and all learners. It is appropriate for all grade levels.

10.4% of U.S. public school students are English Language learners and just 3% of teachers have the necessary qualifications to support EL instruction.

National Center For Education Statistics, 2022

Specialized Reading Knowledge Modules

To help educators effectively support all learners, AIM is proud to offer comprehensive, evidence-based Specialized Reading Knowledge modules. These modules complement AIM Pathways training, providing education partners with the tools and resources needed to implement structured literacy instruction for diverse learners.

Specialized Reading Knowledge: English Learners

Accelerate language and literacy proficiency for English Learners across all program models with this course, created in collaboration with literacy researcher Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan. Gain practical, research-based strategies for immediate classroom application.

NEW COURSE COMING FEBRUARY 18! Specialized Reading Knowledge: African American English

Understanding and addressing the specific linguistic needs of students who speak African American English (AAE) is crucial for fostering academic success and equity in the classroom. This new module is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective, structured literacy instruction to bi-dialectal students who speak AAE. Participants will explore the unique linguistic features of AAE and learn how to leverage these features to support students' literacy development.

African American English

In this two-section Specialized Reading Knowledge: African American English course, participants will explore the unique linguistic features of African American English (AAE) and learn how to leverage these features to support students' literacy development. By recognizing and valuing AAE through a strengths-based approach, and bridging connections to academic English, educators can create a more inclusive and supportive approach to literacy instruction.

Sections include: 

  • Introduction to African American English (2 Hours)
  • Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices (2 Hours)

Cost: $99

Hours: 4

Read Module Syllabus Here

Early Bird Access

Our newest AIM Pathways module, Specialized Reading Knowledge: African American English, is launching on Tuesday, February 18! Be the first to know when enrollment opens—complete this form to get notified and receive an exclusive 10% discount code for the course.

Don't miss out—sign up today!


 

English Learners

Each of the three modules in the Specialized Reading Knowledge: English Learners includes asynchronous online course instruction with exclusive content recorded by Dr. Cárdenas-Hagan, and a wealth of assessment resources, implementation tools, and printables to support immediate use in the classroom. Each module can also be paired with a 1-hour synchronous community of practice session (VCoP) with an expert AIM facilitator.

Modules include:

  • Introduction to English Learners: Language & Literacy Development (2 Hours, 1 hour VCOP - optional)

  • Word Recognition Among English Learners (4 hours, 1 hour VCOP - optional)

  • Language Comprehension Among English Learners (4 hours, 1 hour VCOP - optional)

Read Course Syllabus Here

Learn More About Supporting Diverse Learners

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Download your copy of 5 Marginal Shifts for English Learners in Any Classroom by AIM's Dr. Megan Gierka and Nicole Ormandy.

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Watch presentations from AIM's 2022 Research to Practice Symposium, Understanding the Influence of Linguistic Variation on Reading: Implications for Teaching featuring:

  • Resha Conroy
  • Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
  • Dr. Julie Washington
  • Kareem Weaver