Adult Literacy Pilot – Allied Health Professions for ESL

The Adult Literacy Pilot – Allied Health Professions for ESL project is designed to support English as a Second Language (ESL) students in entering and advancing along healthcare career pathways. Recognizing that ESL learners bring unique cultural perspectives and language skills that are valuable in healthcare settings, this pathway integrates adult literacy instruction with healthcare-focused education and training.

The project piloted a Medical Assistant training course tailored for ESL students and embedded key principles from adult learning theories such as Self-Directed Learning, Transformative Learning, and Culturally Responsive Teaching. The incorporation of these strategies resulted in improved instruction, increased student engagement, and stronger learning outcomes. Faculty reported meaningful changes to teaching approaches, driven by a deeper understanding of adult learners’ needs.

This work lays a foundation for replicable models that support adult learners in accessing high-quality healthcare training while building essential English language skills. The project underscores the importance of aligning literacy instruction with career training to ensure that all learners—regardless of language background—have equitable access to career mobility in high-demand healthcare roles.