MULTILINGUALISM

Multilingualism sits at the heart of international education. In classrooms where students bring diverse linguistic backgrounds, language is not just a tool for learning; it also shapes identity, belonging, and access to opportunity. Supporting multilingual learners well requires more than good intentions. It calls for thoughtful policy, inclusive pedagogy, and a shared understanding that language development is the responsibility of all educators, not just language specialists.

This featured collection brings together articles and practical resources to help educators better understand and support multilingual learners. It offers perspectives, tools, and strategies that can be used across whole-school settings and in individual classrooms. Together, these contributions explore how to move beyond deficit views of language and toward asset-based, culturally responsive approaches that value and leverage the full linguistic repertoire of every student.


ARTICLES

Multilingualism in International Schools
By Jon Nordmeyer and Dr. Virginia Rojas

Transitioning From Monolingual to Multilingual Approaches
By Megan Vosk and Shafali

International schools are moving from monolingual approaches to asset-based models that value multilingualism and strengthen inclusion. This article highlights practical strategies such as translanguaging, co-planning, and the SIOP model, alongside the importance of relationships and self-advocacy. It calls for continued progress to ensure all languages are valued and multilingual learners feel a strong sense of belonging.  Read Now

Multilingualism Is Not Support for Some; It Is Pedagogy for All
By Natasha Sarah Vinales

This article explains what a multilingual classroom is and why it matters, showing how language can be used as a learning resource rather than a barrier. It highlights a shift from deficit-based approaches to inclusive, asset-based practices that value students’ full linguistic repertoires. Readers gain practical insight into how everyday classroom practices can foster belonging, identity, and deeper learning for all students. Read Now