The presenter discusses the social, educational, and cultural backgrounds of each refugee group, drawing from recent research on refugees' backgrounds and resettlement experiences. The presenters examine current initiatives to improve the delivery of cultural orientation to refugees overseas and at home. Particular attention is focused on how improved communication between domestic resettlement agencies and the overseas orientation providers has resulted in greater continuity in refugee orientation. Profiles of new refugee populations are provided along with an in-depth look at how orientation classes are adapted to meet the different needs of African refugees. A short computer-driven checklist is presented in the refugee's native language, taking into account refugee culture, which shows whether a clinical depression is present.
Refugees can then choose the best treatment plan for themselves.
This session helps participants recognize the possible manifestations of trauma in the classroom, appreciate the kind of healing environment a teacher can promote, and utilize effective strategies for making referrals to mental health providers. This session presents findings about what motivates adult learners to participate in volunteer-taught ESL courses. The presenter proposes strategies for incorporating the findings into training sessions for volunteer ESL teachers. The brief presentation is followed by an opportunity for audience discussion. The presenters discuss a case study of two Cubans as they cope with the requirements of college.