Basisbildung als Herausforderung

Basic education is more than learning German
Basic education is more than learning German: it goes beyond literacy work with German as a second language and interlinks different areas of content and fields of learning. In this article, the authors reflect on the methodology and the challenges associated with it in basic education in practice at “Women from All Countries“ (Frauen aus allen Ländern in German), an education and counselling centre in Innsbruck for women and girls with a history of migration and/or refugee experiences. In connection with the presentation of their perspective on basic education, the authors postulate that basic education receives little recognition from the general public. For more recognition, it is necessary to take leave of rigid definitions of basic education and conduct more awareness raising and public relations for people outside this area. In addition, training regarding the content and the learners in basic education courses should be provided to people who work in areas close to the field of basic education. According to the authors, such a better establishment of basic education in eyes of the general public could have a positive impact on cooperation between institutions for basic education and public sector entities and administrative bodies. This in turn contributes to better understanding and appreciation of learners in basic education courses. (Ed.)