“You have been like family to us”: Non-formal language education addressing adult refugees during the covid19 lockdown

Thalia Dragonas, Maria Iakovou, Evdokia Karava and Bessie Mitsikopoulou
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

Abstract

“Curing the Limbo” is an innovative project for social integration of adult refugees, funded by Urban Innovative Actions, coordinated by the Municipality of Athens in which participates the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). Since 2019, NKUA offers, among other skill-acquiring activities, Greek and English language classes, as a precondition for participation and social inclusion in the Greek society. A common language curriculum framework was developed based on the conviction that both languages are the vehicle for bringing people from different cultural backgrounds together and for catering to their practical communicative needs for everyday life interaction with services and support. A place-based pedagogy was adopted integrating learner-centred, experiential and project-based learning. Covid19 seriously challenged the project’s competent functioning. Teaching shifted to fully remote teaching solutions, but, owing to refugees’ limited access to mobile technology infrastructure, the delivery mode classified more under “emergency remote learning” (ERT) rather than a typical on line class. The fragility of the situation required the provision of temporary access to instruction and instructional supports that would be readily available. Through systematic training, instructors developed a creative problem solving approach and designed appropriate digital materials that enabled refugees to stay on board and continue their courses. This learning experience promoted refugees’ and instructors’ resilience and demonstrated creative adaptation to a crisis situation. Refugees’ appreciation is revealed in the comment “you have been like family to us”. Once lockdown measures eased, refugees are back to a face-to-face situation adopting blended teaching techniques, in anticipation of future developments.


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