| Presentation Proposal - NACADA Annual Conference |
| Presentation Info and Handouts |
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Code=174
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Conference Year:
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2026
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Session #:
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(LEC)
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Title:
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Removing Language Barriers to Student Success and Belonging in Academic Advising |
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Lead Presenter:
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Melanie Rabine-Johnson |
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Date:
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December 31, 1969 Time: 6:00 pm - 6:00 pm |
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Room:
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Abstract:
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This interactive workshop addresses urgent student retention challenges by applying second language acquisition theory to academic advising. All new students-regardless of background-enter college as non-natives to an unfamiliar culture requiring specialized linguistic and institutional knowledge. Drawing from the six principles of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) pedagogy, this session provides advisors with concrete pedagogical strategies that existing student development theories lack. Participants collaboratively define commonly used higher education vocabulary-terms like 'prerequisite,' 'academic standing,' and 'office hours'-creating student-centered definitions that promote participation, agency, and belonging. Through small group work analyzing institutional jargon, attendees gain transferable skills for teaching institutional literacy as cultural translators, reframing common student behaviors as linguistic challenges rather than deficits, and supporting equity goals by democratizing access to the hidden curriculum. |
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Handouts
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Note: Handouts (if offered for this session) are accessible via the conference app. |
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