Professional Development
Throughout the year workshops and conferences may be offered with an International Education focus. Some events are hosted by the SCSBC or through Christian or local organizations.
WORKSHOPS:
The SCSBC offers these workshops to meet the needs of your school, staff and administration. To arrange a time to hold one or any of the following workshops, please contact SCSBC.
- The World at Your Door: Enrolling International Students
A presentation exploring the rationale/vision for (and challenges of) enrolling international students. This workshop is suitable for board members, society members and school staff - Back to Basics: Remembering Why We Do What We Do
The gospel gives a global perspective that envisions a church made up of many nations. International student programs give us an opportunity to enrol students from many ethic backgrounds; and allow us to create a mosaic that celebrates diversity within our schools. This workshop is designed to explore the steps needed to establish an International Program or to evaluate current programs and remember "Why We Do What We Do" - Implementing an International Education Program in Your School
An on-site visit (approx. 1/2 day) from the SCSBC International Education Program Coordinator will help administration work through the details of establishing an international student program. - On Being Foreign
In this interactive workshop participants will assess their cross cultural effectiveness by completing the CCAI Self Assessment. Participants will come away with information and strategies to further improve their cross cultural effectiveness. (Recommended for both staff and administration). - The World at Your Door: International Students in your Classroom
The aim of this workshop is to provide a clearer understanding of the cultures of our international students and to share insight into how each of us can more effectively meet their needs. Topics covered will include:- What is Culture?
- Individualism vs. Collectivism
- Differences in Education Systems
- Challenges students face entering Canadian schools
- Culture Shock
- Communicating with Parents
This workshop will be helpful for all staff involved with international students and/or their parents.
- Tools for Building Bridges Across the Communication Gap
As Christians, it is our responsibility to strive to be effective communicators. However, communication can be difficult when we encounter those who do not share the same perspectives and cultural values. In this workshop participants will explore ways in which they can become skilled in their interactions. Jesus prayer for all believers was "that they may be one as we are one I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." (John 17:22b-23). By resolving differences and coming to a clearer understanding of each others culture we can become "one" and become more effective in bringing God's redemptive story to those who have not heard it. - Hosting an Effective Orientation Session
Entering a new country is a new and exciting experience for international students and their parents however, they are not always prepared for the tremendous stresses they experience entering into a new culture. Differences in climate, food, social values, modes of behaviour and verbal and non-verbal communication often generate feelings of confusion, anxiety, depression and alienation.
How can we prepare students for these changes and provide support to them so that they will be enabled to successfully navigate themselves through the stormy waters of cultural adjustment. What tools can we give current students, staff and others involved with the newcomers to enable them to understand and assist those who are going about the difficult task of adjusting to a new country? Orientation events can be a great way to begin the process of integration and adjustment for both the newcomer and for the individuals welcoming them to their community.
