Project Need
With a growing influx of newcomers to Alberta, industries like construction, manufacturing, and hospitality are seeing an increased demand for accessible and effective safety training. Many newcomers encounter language, skills, and cultural barriers, which make it challenging to complete industry-standard safety courses successfully. AWES is addressing this need with targeted resources and training that support both newcomers and those who train them.
Challenges Instructors Face:
- Rapidly identifying and addressing language needs in fast-paced training settings.
- Limited training and resources designed for English language learners in technical safety courses.
- Courses structured in a way that does not allow sufficient time for language support comprehension checks, or practice opportunities.
Through this project, AWES aims to create a series of webinars that will provide trainers and employers with practical strategies and tools to help newcomers succeed in their safety training.
Project Overview
AWES will develop and deliver a series of webinars specifically designed for trainers, employers, and community organizations to better understand, assess, and respond to the needs of newcomers in safety training environments. These webinars will provide practical guidance, tools, and strategies to enhance training practices and improve newcomer outcomes.
Key Webinar Topics:
- Strategies to address language barriers: Practical methods for creating accessible training environment and minimizing language-related obstacles.
- Tips for safety trainers: Facilitation strategies for working effectively with diverse groups in safety training context.
- Techniques for clear communication and comprehension: Techniques for ensuring understanding, providing feedback, and developing newcomer-friendly materials.
Project Outcomes
Enhanced knowledge of newcomer needs:
The webinar participants will gain a better understanding of the barriers newcomers face outside of traditional ESL classrooms. They will be equipped to implement supportive practices that improve newcomer success in safety courses.
Improved training skills and responsiveness:
The webinars will strengthen participants’ skills, confidence, and attitudes in creating inclusive training environments that support newcomers in Alberta’s workforce.
Stay tuned for upcoming webinar dates and be part of a transformative journey toward building a more inclusive Alberta!