Early Learning Languages Australia (ELLA)

ELLA is a fun, digital, play-based language learning program for preschool children. It was developed as part of an Australian Government initiative to encourage more students to study a language. Nine languages are available in 2018: Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Modern Greek and Spanish.

ELLA is delivered through a series of play-based apps on tablet devices, supported by a helpdesk, workshops and a website with support materials and reporting. Educators do not need to have previous knowledge of the language, or experience in delivering a language program. ELLA employs a co-learning approach; it inspires children and educators by driving a genuine interest in a new language and culture.

An expansion of the program aims to continue ELLA as a sustainable program in preschools beyond 2018. It includes:

• designing, developing and delivering an application process for new and existing preschools
• developing and delivering an online application management system
• assessing preschool applications to determine eligibility
• undertaking a national promotion campaign to encourage applications
• hosting and redeveloping the ELLA website
• providing a help desk and support
• developing and introducing ELLA credentials and incentives
• continuing and expanding the ELLA Champions Network
• designing, organising and facilitating ELLA workshops
• hosting and maintaining the existing ELLA apps, and developing two additional languages: Hindi and Modern Greek
• providing data management, tracking and analytics
• developing a sustainability strategy for ELLA beyond 2018
• continuing project governance arrangements.

Education Services Australia managed both the educational and technical solution for ELLA.

Product history

ELLA showcases ESA’s expertise in developing high quality and effective tablet applications for preschool children. The apps have been developed through careful and thorough project management and close engagement with key stakeholders including the Australian Government Department of Education and Training, Millipede (the app developer) and subject matter experts in the ELLA languages.