1. Cross-Cultural Training
Tutoring International Students

2. Who am i?
TEFL Volunteer
TESOL program at OSU
Graduate Assistant in I.S.S.

3. Creating Confidence
Keep it simple: try to be aware of the complexity of information you are dealing with in proportion to the language level of your student(s).
As with anyone in a new environment, international language learners need encouragement.
Safe Space: Learners should not be afraid to make mistakes as they strive to improve.
It is important not overemphasize the difference in language skill between the learner and the tutor.
Positive Reinforcement goes a long way!

4. Student Needs Losing face: the weight of mistakes & correction
International students face many unique challenges
Losing face: the weight of mistakes & correction
Cultural awareness: when & how to call out error
The language barrier: try to scaffold information for students of different levels

5. Basic Communication tips
Don’t be afraid to be personable! Many students will open up as soon as they feel that it Is safe to do so.
Start at the beginning: explaining a course syllabus or even simple words for communication is a good (and often necessary) starting point.
When conversing, always speak slowly, clearly, and loudly.
Try to be patient at all times; even seemingly simple language can sometimes prove intensely difficult or intimidating for new learners.
DO NOT do students work for them; if they do not learn to complete tasks on their own, they will never be able to.