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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