The adaptation process of Somali refugees in Winnipeg, the role of adult education

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Date
1996-12-01T00:00:00Z
Authors
Buchanan, Nancy
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Abstract
This study explored the role of adult education in the adaptation process of selected Somali refugees who had settled in Winnipeg, Manitoba between 1985 and 1995. The purpose of the study was to gain insight into the following four questions: (1) What do selected Somali refugees in Winnipeg identify as their adaptation needs? (2) What education experiences do selected Somali refugees identify as important to their adaptation? (3) What obstacles to education have selected Somali refugees encountered and how have they dealt with them? (4) How helpful do selected Somali refugees in Winnipeg feel that their education experience has been in meeting their adaptation needs? To explore these questions in depth, the researcher conducted interviews with selected Somali refugees. The data from the interviews was analyzed from a qualitative research approach, and triangulated with a literature review and the researcher's involvement with the Somali community. The findings of the study indicated that non-formal learningexperiences were more beneficial to selected Somalis' adaptation to the new culture than were their formal learning experiences. However, participants also identifid several areas in which they desired support for educational opportunities. These included: training in English which extend beyond the achievement of basic survival skills, and which also offered English classes in the workplace; employment programs that provided the students with the opportunity to obtain 'hands-on' experience; family life classes and legal information which addressed the different cultural values between Canadian and Somali societies; a women's support group; and community-operated preventative programs. The findings also suggested that the Citizenship and Immigration could do more to fulfill its commitment to the successful resettlement of refugees. The study also provided insights from Somali participants about cultural, political, social, educational, and religious issues, as well as about family life and gender relations in their culture.
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