In my recent project, I embarked on a mission to craft a unique Norwegian language learning program tailored specifically for refugees in Norway. My approach diverged from traditional methods, centering on a deep understanding of the learners’ needs, challenges, and aspirations. Here’s how I unfolded this journey:
Starting with Real Voices: I conducted comprehensive interviews with 8 learners, using open-ended questions to uncover their true challenges, goals, and experiences with the Norwegian language in their daily lives.
Beyond Language Barriers: The focus extended to understanding their backgrounds, motivations, and learning habits. This was pivotal in identifying how they encounter Norwegian in everyday scenarios, from filling out essential documents to engaging in daily conversations.
Identifying Gaps in Existing Programs: By comparing their real-world language use to the content of integration programs, I pinpointed crucial gaps. This included everyday topics they were familiar with, like shopping, and areas not adequately covered in public adult language courses.
A Human-Centric Approach: My strategy places the learners’ needs at the core. This involves:
Listening to their stories to understand their backgrounds and motivations.
Observing their daily interactions with the Norwegian language to tailor the learning content.
Identifying their learning habits to create a program that fits their lifestyle.
Developing a Tailored Program: All collected insights were instrumental in designing a bespoke language learning program. This program is not only about teaching Norwegian but doing so in a way that resonates with the learners’ life experiences and fills the gaps in existing educational offerings.
Outcome: The result is a customized learning experience that addresses the specific needs of refugees in Norway, helping them to integrate more smoothly into their new environment.
This project stands as a testament to my commitment to a needs-centric approach in learning design and development. By placing the learner at the heart of the process, we can create more effective and meaningful educational experiences.