Alternative Ways is a non-formal learning method to help people learn a new language and settle in to the society new to them. The method, which we were able to develop thanks to a contribution from Erasmus+, initially focused on short-schooled adult migrants, but it soon turned out that other learners also benefited from it. Meanwhile, the Alternative Ways method is also used by teachers in, for instance, formal integration courses. Charlotte Mayenburg, a NT2 teacher, describes her experiences with the method and the method itself in an informative blog elsewhere on the EPALE website [in Dutch]. We recommend reading her blog and sincerely hope her enthusiasm is contagious!

The Alternative Ways method is the result of a collaboration of several organisations (Arbeit und Leben, AKROS, Cervo, Elan, GO, Oslo VO Rosenhof, De Talentenschool and Storytelling Centre) in several European countries (Belgium, Germany, France, the Netherlands and Norway). The reason for these organisations to put their heads together was that they believed the existing teaching methods were not sufficiently tailored to short-schooled migrants who needed to integrate, with the result that their integration was difficult to poor. 

We created the method in two phases. In phase 1, the focus was on learning a second language, i.e. on developing language skills as a vehicle to integrate into a new society; in phase 2, on developing other skills that are also important in an integration process. These include cognitive and digital skills, interpersonal skills and self-leadership skills. In order to develop these skills, we formulated and tested just over 180 exercises and developed tools for the learners to test - individually, in groups and/or guided by the facilitator - how far they are in their learning process. We also put together a number of sample lessons for the inspiration of facilitators, a blueprint for training in the Alternative Ways method and a manual in which we explain, among other things, the fundamentals of the method.  We have received feedback from users of the method that the activities and other tools can easily be adapted to the level of learners one is working with and inspire a more playful way of teaching.

All the information is brought together on the alternativeways.eu website and available free of charge in English, Dutch, German, Norwegian and (to a certain extent) French. On the site, you will also find information about upcoming training courses in the Alternative Ways method, relevant publications, etc. And if you have any questions, suggestions or comments, do not hesitate to contact any of the partners. Our contact details can also be found on the site.