Goals, needs and program implications for adult second language English learners in Fairbanks, Alaska

Abstract

"Adults learning English as a second language face a variety of challenges. This study examines some of those challenges for this population in Fairbanks, AK. Participants were interviewed to better understand their goals for language learning and for other personal aspirations. Four types of goals are identified as well as sub-themes within each goal. From these goals, specific types of needs are determined. Needs focus mainly on written and spoken language proficiency and different competencies required to achieve goals. Finally, suggestions for implementation of programmatic policies and curricula are discussed. However, this analysis is controversial and complicated. Participants were confronted with ideologies, which are present everywhere from daily tasks to the curricula that are geared toward second language learners. In addition, participants' conflicted ideas of identity and their own beliefs about life and language are significant considerations throughout the study"--Leaf iii