‘A Good Teacher Has to Laugh a Lot’: Talking about Perceptions and Beliefs of LESLLA Migrant Mothers in a Small Flemish City

Abstract

In this contribution, we present and discuss the perceptions on and beliefs about language and literacy acquisition of a small group of LESLLA learners in Tienen, a city located in the center of Flanders (Belgium). LESLLA learners often perform poorly in official language and literacy programs. Recent studies indicate that experiences of cultural dissonance may be at the root of the issue. In order to find out whether this assumption is true, we conducted in-depth interviews with nine low-educated migrant mothers during home visits. The analysis of the interviews led to an unexpected kaleidoscope of views on learning, second language learning and literacy. Based on our findings, we draw a few conclusions that may be relevant to LESLLA teachers.