Dr. Leighton is currently involved in several research projects to help deepen understanding about language and literacy learning. The first study stems from Dr. Leighton's doctoral work and investigates the writing development of bilingual middle school students of varying Spanish and English proficiencies. Dr. Leighton is collaborating with colleagues at Boston University on a study that focuses on the literacy development of immigrant parents and their children as they participate in a family literacy program. She is also working with a colleague from Boston University on a study exploring how to facilitate young English language learners' understanding of complex texts. In addition, she is involved in a project called "Enhancing literacy instruction through coaching and interactive technology" (ELICIT). This project brings researchers from Boston University and Boston College together with Boston public school teachers to focus on literacy instructional needs and literacy outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse students.
