Learning in Two Cultures Workshop April 27 th, 2009 NE Edmonton Literacy Network

Presenters  Judy Sillito- Director of Language Services at Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers  Lorette Goulet- Facilitator and Cultural Resources Person at Ben Calf Robe Society  Killa Ibrahim- Health Broker and Facilitator at the Multicultural Health Broker Co-Op  Winnie Chow- Project Manager/ Researcher at the Community University Partnership for the Study of Children, Youth and Families

Workshop Overview This workshop will explore how agencies can support literacy and learning in an intercultural context for individuals who ‘walk in two cultures”. Overview:  Setting the Stage: Story-telling and Group Activity  Small Group Rounds (20 minutes each)  Group Debrief and Closing

North American Assumptions on Learning  There are universal standards for learning/literacy that apply to all children and adults.  Parent and child relationship is the foundation for learning/literacy in Early Child Development.  Learning disabilities are identified based on an individual exhibiting extreme behaviours.  Learning delays can be addressed using one-on- one, solution focused strategies to individualized deficits.

Small Group Rounds  4 Small Groups of 9-10  20 minutes per group  Presenters will share diverse perspectives and expertise.  Group members will have an opportunity to poise questions and generated knowledge that will support or enhance learning in 2 cultures.  4 rounds total with a 15 minute break in-between at 10:00.

Group Debrief Reflect back on the Assumptions on Learning shared during the introduction and the learnings gathered from the small group rounds: What are some key lessons that you will take back to your organization or your practice to enhance learning and literacy with families who walk in two cultures?

Questions and Comments…