Second Language Learning Beyond the Classroom: Affinity Spaces for Adult Immigrants

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Adult Literacy and Adult Education SIG Roundtables (Table 19)

Abstract

The lack of authentic opportunities for adult immigrants to learn English requires a new approach. The purpose of this paper is to present an alternative approach to adult immigrants’ second language learning through the lens of sociocultural theory and the concept of affinity spaces. L2 learning, when addressed in light of sociocultural theory, stands in need of social interaction. Affinity spaces can offer adult learners such interactions. In affinity spaces, where people gather around a shared interest, the interaction that takes place during this experience gains extra importance when it is in the target language of adult learners. ESL instructors can serve as a liaison between the adult learners and affinity spaces to help students access these spaces.

Author

• Seda Ozbek-Damar, Arizona State University