Reading specialist

Many adult learners balance multiple responsibilities, such as work, family and personal commitments, which can create barriers to academic success. The reading specialist at SUNY Adirondack applies special learning principles, recognizing that adult learners bring diverse life experiences and motivations to the classroom. The reading specialist taps into adult learners' prior experiences, helping them connect new academic content to the knowledge and skills they've already gained in their personal and professional lives. Additionally, the specialist offers personalized strategies to improve self-directed learning, reading comprehension, time management and critical thinking, while also addressing any specific skill gaps. This individualized support helps adult learners build the academic confidence they need to thrive in a college setting and persist toward graduation.
 

Specially trained in TESOL, the college reading specialist at SUNY Adirondack plays a key role in supporting English language learners (ELLs) by applying effective teaching strategies rooted in second-language acquisition theory. Understanding the importance of the affective filter, the specialist creates a supportive, low-pressure environment that encourages ELLs to engage with reading and writing tasks without fear of failure. By building a trusting relationship and fostering a positive learning environment, the reading specialist helps reduce anxiety and motivate students to take risks in their language use. Additionally, the specialist focuses on scaffolding — providing structured support and breaking down complex academic tasks — so students can gradually develop their skills without feeling overwhelmed. In addressing common challenges, such as fossilization (the persistence of language errors), the specialist identifies recurring mistakes and offers targeted feedback to help students correct them. Through personalized coaching and tailored workshops, the reading specialist focuses on improving vocabulary acquisition, grammar and academic discourse, while also promoting strategies for reading comprehension and writing clarity. This comprehensive, research-based approach helps ELLs build language proficiency and academic confidence, ultimately supporting their success across all areas of study.

As a first-generation college graduate, the college reading specialist understands the challenges of navigating the often-unfamiliar academic landscape of higher education. Many first-gen students lack the experience or resources to fully understand the expectations of college-level reading and writing. The reading specialist works closely with these students to strengthen their academic skills, answering questions they might not have even known to ask, and offering personalized strategies for reading comprehension, writing and critical thinking. By providing guidance and building confidence, the reading specialist helps first-generation students successfully transition to college and persist in their academic journey, ultimately empowering them to reach their full potential.

The college reading specialist provides tailored support for students with special needs, including neurodivergent learners, by implementing evidence-based strategies that accommodate diverse learning styles. For students with conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia or autism spectrum disorder, the specialist uses universal design for learning (UDL) principles to create flexible, accessible learning environments. This may include providing assistive technology tools, offering alternative formats for reading materials, and using explicit instruction to break down complex tasks. Additionally, the reading specialist helps students develop effective executive functioning skills, such as time management and organization, which are often challenging for neurodivergent learners. Through individualized support, the specialist works to reduce cognitive overload and foster academic confidence, ensuring that all students can access the curriculum and succeed in their studies.