2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

They Teach the Same Levels and We Know More': Barriers to English Language Learning Among Resettled Refugees in Boise Idaho

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Soulit Chacko

Abstract

This poster presents a work-in-progress community mapping project developed through the Afghan Leadership Pathways Program at Boise State University, where undergraduate students collaborated with Afghan community members to identify and visualize locally available resources. Focusing specifically on the English language, this poster highlights experiences of language learning for refugee communities, specifically the Afghans in Boise, Idaho. Using a participatory, community-based approach, Afghan community members and students worked together to identify English language classes, schools, and tutoring programs. The mapping process centered on perspectives and lived experiences. The interactions with the community members points to the ‘lack of recognition and understanding of diverse language learning experiences’ (Linda Morrice et.al 2021) within a group like the Afghans in America. My poster uses focus group narratives to emphasize community knowledge as critical to understanding what is presumed of refugee communities when it comes to English versus what the actual experiences are. In doing so, I draw attention to how English language classes are designed for newly arrived Afghan refugees and the gaps that get created because the classes don't meet the community’s language needs.

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