Teacher–researcher partnership in the translation and implementing of PALS (Peer‐Assisted Learning Strategies): An international perspective.

Peer‐Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS) is a class‐wide structured supplementary paired reading programme to support learners with their reading (Fuchs et al., 1997). What remains at the core of implementing PALS in any given location is the co‐creation with teachers to ensure PALS fits with that educational context. This paper discusses the involvement of teachers as co‐creators in the process of adapting PALS in England, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Taiwan and Iceland. The aim is to demonstrate the importance of careful adaptation when implementing a programme adopted from another country. Each adaption used a different methodological approach to co‐creation. For example, in England, field notes, informal conversations and interviews were utilised for co‐creation. In Iceland, preschool and elementary teachers were instrumental in translating and adapting the PALS materials to the Icelandic context. From each adaption, the teachers supported the development of a literacy programme that was suitable for classroom use. In England, teachers' involvement resulted in the removal of the motivational point system. For the UAE context, PALS began in English to support second language learning, but the instructional routines were a good 'fit' for the school culture and were developed in Arabic. For the Taiwan context, PALS provided an empirical basis for a model of differentiated instruction to enhance the reading literacy of Chinese‐speaking elementary students. In Iceland, teachers trained other teachers in PALS as a research‐based and efficient approach to meeting diverse learning needs of students, especially those with Icelandic as an additional language. Careful adaptation, piloting and the involvement of key stakeholders is important for the successful implementation of a reading programme. Highlights: What is already known about this topicPeer‐Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS) for reading is an effective evidence‐based supplementary whole‐class paired reading programme to support children's reading skills.PALS follows principles of explicit and systematic instruction that are consistent with the science of reading.PALS is a culturally responsive practice that teaches children to take turns reading and listening, whilst providing each other with supportive and corrective feedback. What this paper addsAcknowledges that programmes need to be carefully adapted for each new context to ensure they are suitable.Describes cross‐cultural approaches to co‐creation with educators in the design and implementation of a reading programme.Describes approaches to expanding access to a successful reading programme by implementing PALS in a variety of languages and cultures, which may promote literacy skills for emerging bilinguals. Implications for theory, policy or practiceProgrammes will not always directly translate from one context to another; changes might be needed and thus consultation with educators in educational settings are important.Understanding the theoretical underpinnings of reading programmes can add to success but to be used in practice need to ensure it fits within the educational context without diluting the core elements.Effects of peer‐mediated learning conducted in a structured and systematic way show promise to be robust across languages and cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]