While access to devices and internet connectivity is essential, WEA believes that digital poverty is a complex but achievable challenge that requires a holistic approach. There are often barriers such as
- Trust – Building confidence in digital systems and services.
- Language – Ensuring ESOL-friendly resources and support.
- Skills and Confidence – Empowering learners to feel capable and motivated.
Nusrat spoke about how WEA’s approach to digital skills teaching is rooted in community and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that digital learning is inclusive, practical, and empowering. Key principles include personal development as a precursor to digital upskilling and tailored, ESOL-friendly learning.
She also spoke about how WEA make digital learning accessible and meaningful through implementing several strategies:
- Developed an ESOL-friendly pre-entry digital skills curriculum.
- Used pictorial skills scans instead of complex English text for assessments.
- Delivered classes in community venues, places of worship, and libraries.
- Scheduled sessions during school hours and term time for parents.
- Engaged multilingual tutors to ease comprehension.
- Recognised community leaders as advocates for digital upskilling.
- Trained local ‘digital buddies’ to provide peer support and motivation.
Nusrat highlighted a learner case study to the audience, telling Amina’s story:
Amina moved to the UK four years ago from the Netherlands. Initially, she didn’t appreciate the importance of digital skills. Today, her perspective has transformed:
“I’ve realised that digital skills can help in all areas of life. Everything changes if you can do IT.”
Through WEA’s courses, Amina not only improved her digital skills but also gained confidence and a sense of community:
“I loved being with the other students, we’re all mothers together, we shared experiences and laughed a lot during the breaks.”
Amina has since started a job in Adult Social Care, where digital skills help her complete client records electronically. She is now preparing to start the Essential Digital Skills Qualification, continuing her journey of growth and empowerment.
WEA recognises that addressing digital poverty requires more than providing devices and connectivity. It demands a human-centred approach that tackles confidence, language, and trust.
Through partnerships like this with Good Things Foundation, we aim to create inclusive pathways for migrants to thrive in a digital world.
If you would like to learn more about this partnership, or find out how we can help you with ESOL or digital skills learning, please contact Nusrat Hathiari, WEA’s Head of Partnerships at [email protected].
