Janette DeLong

Topic

Feeling at Home: Sociocultural Language Learning and its Effects on Integration and Belonging among Adult Newcomers to Victoria, Canada

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

Date & location

• Tuesday, August 6, 2024
• 10:00 A.M.
• Virtual Defence

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Tim Anderson, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
• Dr. Graham McDonough, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

• Dr. Jon Woodend, Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies, UVic

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Nigel Mantou Lou, Department of Psychology, UVic

Abstract

Sociolinguistic skills are necessary for feeling comfortable and prepared when communicating in diverse contexts and thus impact newcomers’ experiences with developing a sense of belonging in their new community and society. This thesis explores the experiences of adult immigrant and refugee newcomers attending English language classes in Victoria, British Columbia and how these classes and other contexts contribute to building their sociolinguistic abilities to navigate life outside of classroom settings. I conducted this research using a case study design to complete an in-depth study at one research site: the English language learning division of a support centre for adult newcomers, the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA). I collected data through class observations and semi-structured interviews with newcomer language learners, ICA instructors, and an ICA administrator. Findings show that English language socialization experiences both inside and outside the classroom may impact the development of a sense of belonging for new Canadians. When newcomers have positive communication experiences, their confidence and sense of belonging may grow, which contributes to the likelihood that their next interaction will be positive as well: a positive cycle may form. Therefore, it is vital for integration supports and efforts to be directed not only to newcomers, but to members of receiving society as well to increase the probability of interactions meeting the needs of both newcomers and receiving society alike.