The program’s curriculum focused on real-world applications of the English language, such as talking about the weather or making phone calls. Participants in the intervention condition attended classes for 6 hours per week over a 15-week semester, in either the fall or spring. Classes were offered in morning and evening sessions at a local middle school or community center. The program served immigrants in Framingham, MA, who were learning English as a second language.

EfA provided vocational English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), including lessons focused on answering job interview questions, communicating in the workplace, and finding a job. EfA participants attended classes for 2 to 12 months, depending on their skill and education level. About 24 months after the program’s start, evaluators followed up with participants to assess participants’ employment and earnings.