Educating the Whole Person: Building a Community-based English Language Learning Program

Educating the Whole Person: Building a Community-based English Language Learning Program

Presenter(s)

Kateri Marie Dillon

Comments

Presentation: 10:30-11:00, Roesch Library Collab Space

Description

While some resources exist to support adult English language learning in Dayton, Ohio, many immigrants and asylum seekers are prevented from accessing language instruction due to barriers of scheduling, transportation, and childcare. This is a detriment to the city of Dayton, which cannot effectively receive the gifts of its members not fully integrated into the community. In this study, the researcher takes a holistic and assets-based approach to adult English Language Learning (ELL). A tutoring, classroom hybrid English program was implemented to support the large Latinx population at Immaculate Conception Church, in partnership with Brunner Literacy Center. To mitigate barriers of scheduling, transportation, and childcare, the program was scheduled immediately after the well-attended Spanish mass each Sunday morning, while a children's program took place simultaneously. Over the course of the program, attendance increased from about 25 to 35 learners weekly. Tutors described feeling supported and satisfied with their volunteer experiences. Learners reported positive relationships with their tutors and an increase in confidence in their ability to speak English.

Publication Date

4-17-2024

Project Designation

Graduate Research

Primary Advisor

Jennifer E. Haan

Primary Advisor's Department

English

Keywords

Stander Symposium, College of Arts and Sciences

Institutional Learning Goals

Community; Diversity; Critical Evaluation of Our Times

Educating the Whole Person: Building a Community-based English Language Learning Program

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