Community-Based Research:

"Informal" English Language Training Survey to Service Agencies
 

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Background:
 
As part of its Surrey Immigrant Integration Strategy ‘s implementation phase, the Surrey LIP is looking to enhance service planning and coordination of informal English Language Training (ELT) in the city. ELT has been singled out as a one of the most important elements of immigrant and refugee settlement in Surrey. Yet, there are growing concerns over the ability of the current system of ELT to adequately meet community needs. This issue is in part reflected by a continuing influx of newcomers to Surrey, and persistent waitlists.
 
Preliminary consultation with local stakeholders points to the value of informal ELT programming (such as Conversation Circles) in bridging the gap between service demand and service provision in Surrey.
 
To better inform service planning of ELT, the Surrey LIP is looking to compile information on what informal ELT programs are available in Surrey, where these programs are located, who is accessing these services, barriers to access, and opportunities for improvement. Three main goals have been identified:
 
  1. Assess the extent and nature of informal ELT programming available in Surrey
  2. Compile an inventory of informal ELT services in Surrey
  3. Identify opportunities for addressing unmet client needs regarding informal ELT programming in Surrey
 
What you can do:
 
Help us enhance the service planning and coordination of local English Language Training in Surrey. You can do so by taking the time to fill out the following questions, and provide us with valuable feedback.
 
Approximate time (5minutes)
 
Key Terms:
 
Informal English Language Training (ELT): Simply put, any language programming or service other than LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada), such as Conversation Circles, or ESL Book Clubs, language training offered through post secondary etc.