Best Practices for Teaching Refugees: The Scenario-based Approach of “Fide”
Damian Fäh (Switzerland)
Abstract
The “fide” approach was developed on behalf of the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, specifically targeting second language learners with a refugee background. Its main aim is to facilitate an efficient and learner-centered process of linguistic, professional, and social integration. The system is based on a set of general, didactic, and organizational principles, and includes teaching materials, tests, and train-the-trainer modules designed to incorporate the principles into the practice of teaching, learning, and testing.
The core of the “fide” methodology is the scenario-based approach, which involves acquiring competencies within the framework of realistic scenarios closely related to learners’ everyday lives. The approach engages learners, allowing them to define achievable objectives, determine content, and create learning resources.
In this presentation, participants will learn pertinent facts about the “fide” approach and the existing portfolio of teaching materials and have opportunities to discuss how common challenges of teaching refugees can be addressed and overcome by using the “fide” approach and its deliverables.
Bio
Damian Fäh is a certified language and integration trainer with the fide System and holds an Advanced Federal Diploma of Professional Education and Training in Training Management and Human Resources Development. He also has a EUROLTA certificate and a Master of Arts in General History and Environmental Sciences. Currently, he is a product developer and quality manager for basic skills training and teacher training and an innovation manager for all ALE departments. Damian is also a trainer in SVEB, EUROLTA, and fide certificate courses. His areas of expertise include teaching German as a second language to refugees, basic skills training, and teacher training courses. He has also conducted research on onboarding and managing international teams of teachers and innovative approaches to empowering learners.
damian.faeh@flyingteachers.com