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Journal of Information Systems Education

Abstract

Social inclusion of refugees through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has been gaining attention by researchers in the field of Information Systems. On a similar context, recent research has identified education among the main dimensions of integration and social inclusion of refugees. This study aims to uncover some of the benefits of ICT solutions related to education and digital learning in the context of the social inclusion of refugees. We study aspects of education, e-learning, and language learning by Syrian refugees in Germany as essential drivers of refugee integration and social inclusion into the host society. To fulfill our goal, we applied the qualitative research method and conducted 36 face-to-face interviews with Syrian refugees in Germany, with the main focus being on their use of educational and e-learning opportunities and how these services contribute to their social inclusion into the community. Our findings show a clear potential for education and e-learning as a means of social inclusion for Syrian refugees in Germany. The analysis of our findings is centered around the following dimensions: opportunities, challenges and obstacles, means, and learning formats. The benefits and opportunities of learning enable refugees to overcome some of the challenges and fulfill their needs towards the ultimate goal of being integrated and socially included in the host society. This study contributes to the field of Information Systems, in particular, how research findings can inform professional practices and policymakers on how to improve and develop our societies.

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