Linguistic integration of Adult Migrants (LIAM)
Overview of section contents
- Guiding principles
This section provides an extended check-list of challenges and areas to be considered by those in charge of policy and practice in the field of migrant language education, such as learner needs, learning skills, proficiency levels, incentives, languages of origin,... - Linguistic integration
This section discusses the concept of “linguistic integration” and the complexity of the process, which is by no means limited to migrants learning the language of the host country. The varying challenges, approaches and forms are analysed and clarified. - Language policies for adult migrants
This section provides a reminder of general Council of Europe principles, which are equally relevant to language policies concerning adult migrants. It covers issues related to the evaluation of language policy for adult migrants, including the design and quality of language courses. - CEFR and levels of proficiency
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the best-known and most widely used Council of Europe tool in the area of language education and testing.
This section explains how the CEFR describes communicative proficiency and how it can be used to construct flexible scales and design language courses. The section emphasises that it is essential to exercise caution when applying the CEFR’s descriptive scheme to the linguistic situation and language learning needs of adult migrants. - Language courses and assessment
This section is concerned with a) the provision of language courses, b) various approaches to the assessment of communicative proficiency, including language tests, and c) quality assurance in language teaching and testing.
It offers brief summaries of and links to 16 background papers, case studies and tools concerned with courses, assessment and quality issues. - Instruments
This section offers tools such as a European Language Portfolio (ELP) specially designed for adult migrant learners together with detailed guidelines for teachers; a Self-assessment handbook for course designers. - Links
This section provides links to other useful resources and websites, both in and outside the Council of Europe. - FAQ
These Frequently Asked Questions address issues of general interest to all those concerned with language education and testing. The answers draw on Council of Europe principles, guidelines, studies and tools but also on wider resources.
