Multilingual Learner Support
At Alverno College, we recognize that learning happens in many languages. Our Multilingual Learner (MLL) Support Program helps students build confidence in their English language skills, navigate academic challenges, and succeed in their coursework.
Whether you're an international student or a U.S. resident, Alverno offers academic support and resources to help you learn, communicate, and demonstrate your knowledge.
You may be a multilingual learner if you:
- Speak more than one language
- Come from a household where more than one language is spoken, even if you primarily speak English
- Grew up using a form of English used outside of North America or Great Britain
Multilingual students bring valuable language skills and experiences to the classroom. Alverno provides resources to help you build on those strengths throughout your academic journey.
Resources for Multilingual Learners
Learning doesn't have to happen in just one language. Whether you're reading challenging course material, taking notes or practicing English conversation, there are tools and services to help you succeed.
Explore the resources below to find support that works for you.
Listening to text while reading can make challenging material easier to understand. These tools can help you recognize unfamiliar words, improve pronunciation, and follow complex information.
Browser and Device Tools
Microsoft Edge Read Aloud
Listen to webpages and supported PDFs with adjustable reading speeds and voices. Immersive Reader also offers options to make text easier to follow.
Google Chrome Reading Mode
Adjust text size, spacing and other reading settings on supported webpages, with read-aloud options where available. Chromebooks also offer built-in text-to-speech tools.
Safari Listen to Page
Listen to supported webpages using Safari on an iPhone or iPad.
Android Accessibility Tools
Use features such as Select to Speak or Listen to This Page to hear text aloud. Available features vary by device.
Tools for Longer Documents
ElevenReader
Turn PDFs, articles, books and other text into natural-sounding audio. A free version is available with listening limits.
TTSReader
Listen to text you paste or upload. Useful for reviewing study notes, proofreading assignments or practicing presentations.
Study tip: Try listening to a difficult reading while following along with the written text. Hearing and seeing information together can help improve comprehension.
Understanding a concept in another language can help you learn it more effectively. Translation tools can help you work through unfamiliar vocabulary and complex course material.
DeepL Translator
Translate words, sentences, longer passages and supported documents between languages.
Study tip: Translate challenging material to understand its meaning, then return to the English version and practice explaining the ideas in your own words.
Recording and reviewing course material can help you process information at your own pace and reinforce what you've learned.
Genio Notes
Record lectures, create transcripts and outlines, generate study quizzes and organize related course materials such as presentations and videos.
Alverno students have free access using their Alverno email address.
Important: Follow your course and college policies about recording classes and using AI-supported tools.
Regular conversation can help you build fluency, strengthen listening skills and feel more comfortable participating in class discussions.
HelloTalk
Connect with language partners through text, voice and video conversations. Includes tools for translation, pronunciation and corrections. A free version is available.
Tandem
Practice languages with conversation partners through messaging, audio or video calls. Translation and correction tools are available, along with a free version.
Safety reminder: These are independent social platforms, not Alverno tutoring services. Avoid sharing passwords, financial details, student records or other private information with language partners.
Sometimes talking through a challenge with another person is the best way to move forward. Alverno's Center for Learning and Assessment Support (CLAS) offers tutoring to help you develop academic skills and navigate coursework.
Tutors Can Help You:
- Understand difficult readings and assignments
- Get started on papers, projects and other coursework
- Understand instructor feedback
- Develop study strategies and prepare for assessments
- Work through math, science and quantitative literacy problems
- Create a plan when you're unsure where to begin
Drop-in and appointment-based tutoring are available.
Explore CLAS Tutoring Services
Not sure what to ask? You don't need to have a specific question ready. You can simply say, "I'm having trouble with this assignment, but I'm not sure where to start."
If you need additional time to process English during assessments, you can contact the Student Accessibility Coordinator to ask about an extended-time accommodation.
Student Accessibility Services
Email: studentaccessibility@alverno.edu
Location: Read Center (RC) 131
Questions or Suggestions?
Have questions about multilingual learner support? Looking for a resource that isn't listed here? We're happy to help. Contact us with questions, suggestions or additional support needs.
ML Cogar
Director, Center for Learning and Assessment Support (CLAS)
ml.cogar@alverno.edu
Read Center (RC) 109
