University of Sussex
Browse
Morrice Languagepaper Revised -FINAL-31 Jan2019.pdf (289.81 kB)

‘You can’t have a good integration when you don’t have a good communication’: English language learning among resettled refugees in the UK

Download (289.81 kB)
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 17:00 authored by Linda MorriceLinda Morrice, Linda K Tipp, Michael CollyerMichael Collyer, Rupert Brown
The research presented here is based on a large-scale, multi-methods study of refugees who have been resettled to the United Kingdom. We analyse quantitative data on language proficiency four or more years after resettlement to identify the key characteristics of those who are most likely to have low language proficiency and to be at risk of long-term dependency and exclusion. Qualitative interviews on experiences of language learning suggest that English-language policy and provision serve to exacerbate and compound the risk of social exclusion, rather than ameliorate the risk. Our findings draw attention to the lack of recognition and understanding of the diversity of resettled refugees and their differential capacities, needs and opportunities for learning. They also highlight the conflict between the policy goal of rapid entry into the labour market and the goal of language learning. These findings have clear implications for integration strategies and policy.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Accepted version

Journal

Journal of Refugee Studies

ISSN

0951-6328

Publisher

Oxford University Press

Issue

1

Volume

34

Page range

681-699

Department affiliated with

  • Education Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2019-02-27

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2021-04-28

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2019-02-27

Usage metrics

    University of Sussex (Publications)

    Categories

    No categories selected

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC