ADULT EDUCATION FOR DISPLACED UKRAINIANS: MOTIVATIONS AND COMMUNICATION BARRIERS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING

Abstract

Millions of Ukrainians have migrated and have been displaced since the beginning of a full-scale invasion in 2022. The displacement has presented significant linguistic and adaptation challenges for older Ukrainians in host countries. The purpose of the research is to investigate the motivation of older Ukrainian refugees and the barriers they face in adult English language learning. Methodologically, the study utilized a quantitative survey administered to older Ukrainian refugees attending the English language courses at Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU). The findings of the research show the primary motivations and the significant barriers older Ukrainian refugees encounter, emphasising the crucial role of effective communication   in   their  adaptation   and   integration  into  host  communities. The research reveals that social integration, personal development opportunities, and travel are key drivers for learning English, with social aspects proving particularly crucial. However, elderly refugees face substantial communication difficulties, predominantly stemming from fundamental linguistic elements like grammar and insufficient vocabulary, alongside significant comprehension issues. Psychological barriers, such as the fear of making mistakes and uncertainty, are also present, though their impact varies among individuals. Listening and writing are identified as the most challenging aspects of language acquisition for this category of adult learners. The study underscores that older Ukrainian refugees who are staying in Great Britain, primarily rely on informal, self-directed, and socially interactive methods such as engaging with media, communicating with sponsors, and reading in order to supplement their English learning. This highlights the need for available adult education programs to adapt them to the needs of older adults and facilitate practical, accessible, and integrated learning experiences.

Key words: Ukrainian refugees; elderly learners; adult education; English language learning; communication barriers; motivation; non-formal learning.