1. Preliminarily results of the Poliglotti4.eu research on Early Language Learning Anna Verkade, MSc. a.t.verkade@rug.nl Leeuwarden, 9 February, 2012

2. A word of welcome Civil Society Platform on Multilingualism European Commission Goal: to investigate the current situation of multilingualism in Europe Result: Policy Recommendations for the Promotion of Multilingualism in the European Union Poliglotti4.eu

3. -How far are European countries with implementing ELL programmes? -Which kind of language is ELL aimed at? -Which good practices are used? -What can we learn from each other? -What are the most important issues to be improved concerning the ELL situation? Research questions

4. Research Summer of 2011 distribution of questionnaires throughout Europe among grassroots actors. Goal = general impression ELL situation in Europe: Current (best) practice Key motivators/obstacles Target languages 4

5. Results (1) 5

6. Results (2) Several target languages The attitude of parents is positive Respondents believe formal learning opportunities are a better way to learn languages Teachers do not know if there is an official curriculum for ELL 6

7. Results (3) Top 3 challenges faced by bilingual families: 1)A positive language attitude 2)Finding adequate education 3)Enough information/materials to provide a language-rich environment Parents regard ELL as important, but are not willing to support ELL programmes financially or personally. 7

8. Results (4) Top 3 most important issues to be improved with respect to the ELL situation: 1)Better learning materials for children 2)Smaller learning groups 3)Better income for specialist teachers 8

9. Results (5) Top 3 most important issues to be improved for teachers dealing with ELL: 1)More opportunities to attend in-service training courses 2)More knowledge about appropriate teaching methodology 3)Higher linguistic competence/better availability of teaching materials 9

10. Conclusion Outcome in line with the Policy Recommendations for the Promotion of Multilingualism in the European Union The outcomes reconfirm the need to raise awareness of the benefits and advantages of ELL 10

11. Follow-up? Full report ELL available on the Poliglotti4.eu website An inventory for further research and action plans We wish you a fruitful Expert Seminar and a pleasant stay in Leeuwarden! http://www.poliglotti4.eu

12. Partners 12