Alkakuri Language Course : A Tool for social Integration Based on the Experiences of Immigrants.

Abstract

My research examines immigrants’ experiences of integrational Finnish language course called Alkakuri. This language project has been organized by Aurala organization and the project was funded by European Union. The research has been conducted among the immigrants residing in city of Turku, Finland. The overall aim of the study is to provide an in-depth understanding of immigrant’s feelings while learning Finnish language and what encourages them to learn Finnish language. Therefore, I based my research on the following questions (a) what are the expectations and opinions immigrants have with Alkakuri Finnish language course? (b) How immigrants narrate their experiences and feelings about Alkakuri? (c) Does language have significance in the labour market? The research has been organised by using the qualitative research methods and applying an in-depth interview technique. This study puts in use the importance of learning the language skills of host country (Finland) by utilising the framework of integration and how lacking the language skills effect the integration process of immigrants. The result of this data analysis indicates that the research participants have experienced and realized the significance of language skills. Their experiences include the integration of immigrants on cultural, social and in labour market.