Florida International University (FIU) has a long-standing tradition of providing exceptional English language instruction through its English Language Institute (ELI). Since 1978 the ELI has served as a gateway for many international students, offering a comprehensive academic program designed to improve language proficiency for those who are learning English as a second or other language for higher education.
Equipping Students for Success
The ELI at FIU is an academic program committed to fostering language skills among its students. Offering six levels of proficiency, the program is tailored to suit the individual strengths and weaknesses each student exhibits in the four core skills: grammar, reading, writing, and communication. According to the director, Laura Lamour, who has been leading the institute since the summer of 2019, the goal is simple yet profound: to equip students with the necessary language skills for academic and professional success.
The ELI plays a crucial role in the academic journeys of its students. Many participants are preparing to transition to universities either in the U.S.or in their home countries. Others seek to obtain certification that holds significant value in their professional lives back home.
“The program was founded in 1978, and it is an academic program to provide language instruction for those who have chosen English as their medium of communication,” Lamour said. “Many of our students are here to transfer to the university, or a university of their choice. Others are here for credentialing; they take back home their certificates, and that means a lot to them.”
Using the Michigan English Placement Test (M-EPT)
At the core of the ELI’s admission process is the Michigan English Placement Test (M-EPT). This reliable assessment tool measures a student’s competency in grammar, listening, reading, and vocabulary. Merging M-EPT with their in-house assessments of speaking and writing, the ELI can place students in the appropriate proficiency levels.
The tailored nature of FIU’s ELI curriculum means that students do not merely receive an overarching level but rather a precise evaluation of their strengths and areas needing improvement.
“We use M-EPT, and that has been great because it measures grammar, listening, and reading vocabulary. We use that in addition to our own in-house speaking and writing metrics, where we’re able to compare the two and form a decision on where students go,” Lamour said.
According to Lamour, M-EPT has proven to be a trustworthy tool for assessing students’ abilities. “It’s been great to work with M-EPT because we’re able to get a holistic picture of how students are going to do.”
Lamour indicated that some tests on the market, while they may be convenient and fast, don’t offer the same reliability as M-EPT. Many students come to ELI after struggling with their English in school. Lamour observes that they usually take an unreliable English exam, receive an inaccurate result, and believe their English is ready for college when it is not.
Support Services and Tools
Success at the ELI is not just about accurate placement; it’s also about ongoing support. To assist students who may face challenges, the ELI offers a variety of support services.
“We offer our students tutoring when we find that they are at risk, or they’re not understanding the materials in the class,” Lamour said. Tutoring sessions are available either before or after class to meet individual needs.
The institute also utilizes supplementary tools like Reading Plus, a software that enhances reading fluency, speed, and vocabulary. This tool is not just an add-on but an integral part of the curriculum, and students are incentivized to use it.
“At the end of the semester, if the student has completed those lessons with 80 percent mastery, they get a letter grade for their efforts,” Lamour said.
Living and Studying in Miami
Miami, with its warm climate and vibrant culture, is an attractive destination for many international students. The allure of beaches and the international reputation of FIU add to its appeal.
FIU’s competitive academic programs in fields like law, business, and hospitality have also seen substantial growth and recognition.
“FIU is now ranked as an emerging and preeminent school for research,” Lamour said. “Now we’re compared to Florida State University, the University of South Florida, and the University of Florida.”
Success Stories
The ELI has a multitude of success stories, reflecting the transformative experiences of students. Graduates frequently return to share their achievements, creating a sense of community.
“One of our students who started in level two said that reading was really hard for her, and she hated it because it was difficult. Then she moved on to level three, and it was equally difficult. Now that she’s in level four, going through these challenges has allowed her to be successful because she knows she can overcome them,” Lamour recounts.
The ELI stands as a strong supporter of students learning English. The incorporation of M-EPT has enhanced the institute’s ability to offer precise and effective instruction tailored to individual needs. Coupled with other services like tutoring, the ELI ensures that students are not only meeting but exceeding their language acquisition goals. As a critical stepping stone for many, Florida International University’s ELI remains dedicated to fostering academic success and personal growth among its diverse student body.
To learn more about M-EPT, visit our website.