Leaving home to study in a new country is an act of immense bravery. However, international students in a new, unfamiliar environment may defensively self-segregate with students who share their background, or become isolated. Fortunately, research has shown that teachers can positively influence the learning, health and well-being of their students.
Openness and inclusiveness from faculty can build safety for international students, encourage them to participate in academic life while in Canada, and model positive behaviours and strategies that both international and domestic students can emulate (e.g. empathy, communication, conflict resolution, willingness to adapt to new knowledge). This session uses a neuroscience lens to examine how mimicry and vicarious learning processes help students learn from what they see.
Acculturation & Strategies for International Students
This series of interactive workshops offers research-based intercultural teaching strategies, as well as guidance and support for challenges of sociocultural adaptation and language competency.
The sessions are presented by Academic Learning Services, and are designed and delivered by Muhammad Elhabibi, an Academic Learning Specialist who facilitates the language learning process for international students at SMU. Mr. Elhabibi has 35 years of teaching experience in multiple countries and learning contexts, including three Canadian universities. The series is designed for instructors, but may also be of interest to Saint Mary’s University staff who work closely with international students.
To register for one or more workshops in this series, email writing@smu.ca.
