Erina Iwasaki
I am a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in International Education, Language, Literacy, and Poverty at the University of Notre Dame. I also serve as Co-Director of MLE International.
My work examines language-in-education policy, L1 or non-dominant language based bi-/multilingual education, and the politics of educational reform and implementation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. I am especially interested in how educational change occurs: the actors, ideas, and events that shape policy trajectories, and the role of multilingual education in advancing educational equity and belonging. I also engage in research and practice related to positive youth development, exploring how educational and cultural programs foster agency, leadership, and civic engagement among young people.
I have also consulted for various INGOs and NGOs in Senegal, Tunisia, Uganda, and Myanmar, designing and implementing multi-year teacher training programs, developing curricula, and conducting research for multilingual education and positive youth development initiatives.
Raised across languages and cultures, I work in English, French, and Japanese, with additional experience in Spanish and Burmese. During fieldwork and in everyday encounters, I love immersing myself in new languages and learning from the people and places around me.
This website brings together my publications, ongoing research projects, and professional activities.
Beyond academia, I enjoy music, literature, art, travel, and food — anything and anywhere the soul wanders to. From time to time, I also write about these interests and the reflections they inspire.
I look forward to connecting with you here.
If you would like to receive updates about new posts, publications, and occasional wanderings, you are welcome to subscribe below.