Event Title
Learner Variables in Burmese Refugees
Presentation Type
Oral and/or Visual Presentation
Presenter Major(s)
Psychology
Mentor Information
Laura Vander Broek
Department
English
Location
Kirkhof Center 2259
Start Date
10-4-2013 12:00 AM
End Date
10-4-2013 12:00 AM
Keywords
Changing Ideas/Changing Worlds, Human Rights, Social Class, U.S. Diversity
Abstract
The U.S. resettles more refugees than any other country in the world today, over 3 million since 1975 (Office of Refugee Resettlement; 2/11/13). Michigan alone accepted 4,324 refugees from around the world in 2011. Of these, 639 were originally from Burma. Burmese refugees who arrive in West Michigan typically have low literacy levels in their native language, just one factor, or learner variable, that affects their ability to learn English once in the U.S. As English is a key tool in the survival of refugees in America, it is crucial that those who provide English classes as part of a resettlement service program understand what variables influence English acquisition in their classrooms and how. This study examines the individual learner variables present in an elderly Burmese man and how these will contribute to or hinder his ability to learn English as a resettled refugee in West Michigan.
Learner Variables in Burmese Refugees
Kirkhof Center 2259
The U.S. resettles more refugees than any other country in the world today, over 3 million since 1975 (Office of Refugee Resettlement; 2/11/13). Michigan alone accepted 4,324 refugees from around the world in 2011. Of these, 639 were originally from Burma. Burmese refugees who arrive in West Michigan typically have low literacy levels in their native language, just one factor, or learner variable, that affects their ability to learn English once in the U.S. As English is a key tool in the survival of refugees in America, it is crucial that those who provide English classes as part of a resettlement service program understand what variables influence English acquisition in their classrooms and how. This study examines the individual learner variables present in an elderly Burmese man and how these will contribute to or hinder his ability to learn English as a resettled refugee in West Michigan.