The impact of church-based ESL classes on their students’ social capital

Authors

  • Daisy William Excelsia College

Abstract

Background: Migrants and refugees can be exposed to various stress factors which affect their mental health before and during their migration journey. It then extends to during their settlement and integration. The World Health Organisation claim that stress from their migration journey can increase the risk of developing mental health conditions. 

Purpose: Through the lens of social capital theory, the researcher is taking the stance that church-based ESL classes help in the development of immigrants’ and refugees’ social capital. Social capital is understood to be a network of connections which help in the development of societies and in this case, in the improvement of the quality of life of immigrants and refugees.

Methodology: This article is the researcher’s reflection of the role church-based English as a Second Language (ESL) classes play in assimilating immigrants and refugees into their communities. This reflection is from the perspective of an academic and manager, having managed a variety of ESL programs for many years.

Findings: Although ESL programs run by churches are an evangelistic tool, Christian principles and values are not imposed on the adult learners. ESL classes are run with the hope that participants may encounter Jesus in the context of genuine Christian care, acceptance and friendship.

Author Biography

Daisy William, Excelsia College

Dr William has over twenty-five years of extensive industry experience in management. Her professional leadership experience extends to being CEO of three organisations and director of two English language programs/centres. Dr William is the ELICOS Program Director at Excelsia University College and was the Director of the Language Training Centre at the University of New England. Her experience includes teaching and managing English programs in Malaysia and higher education institutions in Australia.

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Published

2025-06-16

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2025): Journal of Contemporary Ministry

Section

Peer Reviewed Articles

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