Literacy at Work: Korean Adult Immigrants’ Lived Experiences

Abstract

Despite the increasing emphasis on the language and literacy practices of immigrant communities, our understanding of Asian immigrants’ everyday experiences in their workplaces remains limited. This study examines the language and literacy practices of two Korean adult immigrants within their professional environment—a family-owned dry cleaning business. Drawing on the concept of Literacy as Social Practice, this study explores their lived experiences. Research was conducted using an ethnographic approach, incorporating participant observations, interviews, and field notes. The collected data was analyzed using an inductive method, facilitating a deeper understanding of the family's evolving social practices and the crucial role their workplace plays in the context of immigrant families. Findings suggest that the family refined their professional skills and essential English proficiency through self-initiated learning, utilizing available resources. The workplace emerged as a significant platform for the family's immigrant experience, markedly shaping their language and literacy practices. This research provides insight into the underrepresented population's literacy practices and spaces, contributing valuable understanding to the field of adult literacy.