Eliana Hirano

Eliana Hirano is a Professor of Teacher Education and Director of the TEFL Minor at Berry College. She holds a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from Georgia State University, an M.A. in Applied Linguistics from Pontificia Universidade Catolica de Sao Paulo, and a B.S. in Computer Science from Universidade de Sao Paulo. Her academic work focuses on applied linguistics, second language acquisition, and refugee education. She teaches courses such as Introduction to Applied Linguistics, Second Language Acquisition and Development, and coordinates the TEFL Practicum program.

Her research explores refugee students' educational experiences, ESL teaching methodologies, and global academic participation disparities. She regularly collaborates with undergraduate researchers, co-authoring multiple publications. Dr. Hirano also leads study abroad programs to Ecuador and the Global Village Project in Decatur, GA, emphasizing cultural diversity education. Her work bridges theoretical linguistics with practical pedagogical innovations, particularly in marginalized student populations.

Notable publications include studies on refugee identity development, ESL pronunciation strategies, and Brazilian scholars' global academic engagement. She has presented at national and international conferences, advocating for inclusive education policies and teacher education reforms.