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Jai (rest), Chai (tea) and Wi‐Fi: Exploring Feasibility of Mobile Language Learning App for Asylum Seekers in Greater Athens
Author(s) -
Husain Matt M.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of international development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.533
H-Index - 66
eISSN - 1099-1328
pISSN - 0954-1748
DOI - 10.1002/jid.3473
Subject(s) - refugee , observational study , language barrier , psychology , empirical research , rest (music) , sociology , political science , law , medicine , philosophy , epistemology , pathology , cardiology
Abstract This paper problematizes asylum seekers' social, economic and cultural experiences in Greater Athens and explored how their lack of proficiency in the Greek language impede gaining a foothold. A preliminary, multisited observational investigation was conducted based on interdisciplinary approach. The empirical findings based on 21 informal interviews at two day camps indicate asylum seekers face acute linguistic issues. In addition, lack of reliable and consistent translators frequently deepens communication challenges. The transcultural findings also suggest mobile language learning technology can assist the asylum seekers, as well as the non‐governmental organization personnel to overcome communication barriers. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.