Faculty Research Overview
>> Heining-Boynton, Audrey
Audrey Heining-Boynton’s research focuses on learners of languages other than English and those learning English as a foreign language. She explores the impact of different approaches and types of curricula as well as the role that perceptions of the learner and the public play in language learning and policy. Young learners and motivation as it applies to language learning are of particular interest.
In her research, Heining-Boynton has created a five-part survey to assess the perceptions of teachers, administrators, parents and learners regarding early language learning; the survey has been used and adapted across the country. She has also conducted research that explores changes in teacher behavior and their perceptions when presented with professional development opportunities and the effects of teachers’ professional development on their students.
Her next steps are two-fold: to record and report on the differences in language learning in student-centered versus teacher-centered classrooms; and to report on the differences between content-based curricula and thematic curricula as they apply to early language learners.