What the English? The Adult Migrant Learner

To conclude series 3, we listen to Daud, Leila and Mae talk about their experiences growing up in a bilingual household. They speak of their love of learning and the connection we all have through language. Their insights and reflections are expressed with wisdom and intelligence beyond their years. You will be delighted by their stories. 

Mae is 26 years of age and was born in Cairo, Egypt. She came to Australia at a young age and grew up listening to, and occasionally speaking Arabic.

Mae talks about language experiences and her love of writing, and how this form of communication offers many intricate layers of meaning – a ‘poetic language’ as such. 

We welcome Leila. A 15 year old who is the younger of two older siblings. Leila has learned several different languages, Bosnian being the language she grew up with. Leila discusses the benefits of learning more than one language, and the importance of understanding and acknowledging different cultures and backgrounds. 

In series 3, we speak to second generation youth about growing up in a bilingual household. Episode 1 introduces Daud. Daud is 15 years old and has one brother and one sister. Daud was born in Indonesia and he would like to pursue music and science in the future.   

Branka comes from a teaching background.  When she arrived in Australia she enrolled in various courses and worked her way up to managerial positions in the adult literacy sector.

Branka’s story resonates with each and every one of us and inspires courage and hope.

Arthur and Grace have been in Australia for over 60 years. They are of Italian descent and have 3 children. Arthur and Grace share their experiences of assimilating into the Australian way of life, and the many challenges faced in learning a new language.

Join me in listening to their story. 

This episode is a celebration of our students. Pat, Marcella and myself have an in depth discussion about adult literacy, language learning and the classroom.

This compilation episode introduces series 2 of ‘What the English?’ The Adult Migrant Learner. Hear Cindy, Ibrahim and Mariam talk about their challenges and the advice they offer to newly arrived migrants about learning, and the importance of not giving up!

Mariam speaks openly about some of the challenges she faced in the English language classroom.

Ibrahim emphasises the importance of learning English before finding a job. He is retired and likes to spend his time with family and helping the Sudanese community.

During the interview, Ibrahim discusses his educational journey and his experiences of being a chef in Australia. He speaks openly about teachers, learning styles and the classroom, and how far he has come in his conversation skills.