"TIRF encourages TESOL researchers to do good work and to make a difference in the world as the findings from their research inform and enrich the learning and teaching of English around the world."

Diane Larsen-Freeman,
TIRF Supporter

The International Research
Foundation
for English Language Education

Research > Research Priorities > Students' Age and Effective English Language Education in Schools

TIRF Research Priorities

Students' Age and Effective English Language Education in Schools

First adopted 2002-2003

The relationship between the age at which English is introduced in public schools (as a second language, foreign language, and/or as a medium of instruction to speakers of other languages) and educational processes and outcomes.

Proposals that address this research priority examine such issues as the relationship between age, duration, intensity of instruction, and learning outcomes; the impact of policies regarding age of initial English instruction on teacher education; and the relationships among first language/literacy learning, English language/literacy learning, and age, either in English-dominant or non-English-dominant countries.