Xia Chao

Dr. Xia Chao is Associate Professor of Language and Literacy Education in Duquesne University's School of Education. Her research investigates language and literacy practices in schools and immigrant/refugee communities, and prepares teachers for multilingual learners. She has received grant funding from the Spencer Foundation and National Geographic Society.

Her research examines language socialization in immigrant communities, bilingual education practices, and culturally responsive teaching methods. She develops community-based approaches to literacy development and digital storytelling projects with refugee populations.

Dr. Chao's publications explore language negotiation, identity formation in refugee youth, and community-based literacy programs. Her work emphasizes equity in education and culturally sustaining pedagogies.

• Early Career Award for Excellence in Scholarship (2020)
• Early Career Award for Excellence in Teaching (2019)
• Literacy Research Association J. Michael Parker Award (2015)
• Outstanding Early Career Scholar Award (2016)

She directs several community-engaged projects including digital storytelling initiatives with refugee communities and bilingual education programs. Her grants support research on multilingual learners and teacher preparation for diverse classrooms.