Can ICT reduce social exclusion? The case of an adults' English language learning programme

Abstract

Strong claims are made for ICT-based lifelong learning as an effective way of reducing the exclusion of various groups in society, yet, there is very little research to support these claims. Empirical research is needed, including qualitative studies of the experiences of socially excluded learners using ICT. This article reports the findings of such a study in relation to learners from one socially excluded group, adults from ethnic minority backgrounds, who are disproportionately deprived and often excluded by language. The article discusses the study of the experiences and perceptions of adults learning English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) through ICT in seven different learning centres in England. The findings show that technology is insufficient to overcome existing inequalities in access to learning, and to engage learners who would not otherwise undertake formal learning, but ICT-based learning can reduce some aspects of social exclusion in terms of encouraging minority ethnic group learners to speak more within the host community. ICT-based learning offers a space for language learning and practice, which is often absent in traditional ESOL classrooms and in the every day lives of these excluded groups. Learning is a social practice in which the level of commitment of tutors to encouraging the use of these media and creating a safe and private space for learning affects the range of learning activities with which learners engage and the impact of these on their everyday use of English.

Evaluating Integrated Task Based Language Teaching and English Language Learning and Instruction System

“…Taken together, these studies support the notion that varieties of integrated TBLT and (Webb, 2006). Teachers planning to include technology in onsite instruction need to understand the extent to which students have access to computers; c) suplementary exercises for the language learning development, especially writing.…”

Rethinking (e)learning: a manifesto for connected generations

“…In an examination of the role technology might play in reducing the exclusion of various groups within society, Webb (2006) concluded that 'For such learners, with supportive tutors, ICT-based learning was a medium that encouraged learners to imagine a future of greater inclusion in the host community' (p. 507). Such findings also reinforce the value of collaboration and the potential to form online communities of practice (Wenger, 1998).…”

Differential OER Impacts of Formal and Informal ICTs: Employability of Female Migrant Workers

“…Studies have shown that ICT-based learning can reduce some aspects of social exclusion in terms of encouraging minority ethnic group learners to speak more within the host community (Webb, 2006). Noting the potential for migrant workers to use technology for learning (e.g., Kluzer, Ferrari, & Centeno, 2009), we investigate how migrant domestic workers use mobile technology to supplement formal learning at an open educational institution.…”