Using and learning Finnish as a second language in construction site interaction

Authors

• Niina Lilja Tampere University
• Terhi Tapaninen Tampere University and Tampere Adult Education Centre

DOI: https://doi.org/10.23997/pk.74506

Keywords:

blue-collar work, conversation analysis, Finnish as a second language, interaction, language learning, language at work, learning

Abstract

Recent new arrangements of integration learning for adult immigrants to Finland emphasize
the importance of work-specific language skills. In order to speed up labour market
integration, new models of integration learning have been introduced in which language
learning is combined with vocational education. While these new models have the potential
of supporting immigrants in finding their paths to labour market in an efficient way, they also
bring about challenges for language teaching. This is especially because research on language
practices in blue-collar work is still scarce.
In this paper, we aim is to provide new information about language practices in construction
work. By using multimodal conversation analysis as a method, we show how language
practices are tightly connected to the material ecology of the construction site setting. In
organizing the collaborative teamwork, the co-workers need to direct and advice each other
and negotiate challenging situations. The data consists of audio- and video recordings of L2
interactions at a construction site in a vocational school.