Language learning is of growing importance to Age of Learning as we accelerate our global expansion to educate children around the world. So, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of Alison Mackey to our Curriculum Board. Dr. Mackey, a Professor of Linguistics at Georgetown University, is one of the world’s leading experts in how people learn second languages.
Dr. Mackey’s research into second language learning appears in all of the top scholarly journals in her field, as well as in edited collections with Cambridge University Press, Oxford University Press, and other leading publishers. In addition to authoring more than 100 journal articles, chapters, and reports, Dr. Mackey has published 16 books—three of which focus on children’s language learning. One of her best-known works, co-authored with Professor Kendall King, is The Bilingual Edge: Why, When and How to Teach Your Child a Second Language (HarperCollins), which has been translated into multiple foreign languages and will soon appear in Chinese.
“Age of Learning’s focus on using empirical findings in education research to drive children’s language learning outcomes at scale is very exciting,” said Professor Mackey. “I am very pleased with this opportunity to join Age of Learning’s Curriculum Board and support the company’s work in developing effective educational programs for children around the world.”
Professor Mackey has taught linguistics around the world, consulted for major language learning companies, and reviewed international baccalaureate and language programs. With her colleague, Susan M. Gass, she is a past winner of the Modern Language Association‘s Kenneth W. Mildenburger prize, awarded for outstanding scholarly books in the fields of language, culture, literacy, and literature that address the teaching of languages other than English. Professor Mackey carried out her graduate work at the University of Sydney and Cambridge University, where she earned her Ph.D. and M. Phil., respectively.
“Age of Learning’s Curriculum Board is central to our curriculum and product development process, ensuring the latest research and understanding of educational best practices guide our work to create the most effective learning experiences for children,” said Age of Learning founder and Executive Chairman Doug Dohring. “We are very pleased to welcome Professor Mackey and her leading expertise in language learning to our team as we continue to enhance and expand our ABCmouse English language learning programs.”
Professor Mackey joins several other leading experts in early childhood education, child development, and language learning who guide the development of Age of Learning’s educational programs.