Another Field Trip Suggestion

Last Thursday, my 430 class had the opportunity to visit the Victoria Intercultural Association, an organization that welcomes Canadian newcomers to their new home by providing such things as ESL training, daycare, and vocational services.  It was a really interesting experience for all of us Education students to meet with the many new Canadians who benefit from these wonderful services provided to them by Victoria's ICA. 

A large majority of the people who visit the ICA are working mothers who are trying to acquire a level of English that will enable them to find a job, or be able to apply to university. The students were all very happy and eager to converse with us, as the best way for one to improve their language skills is through consistent practice.

I want to share this experience with you for two reasons: first, the ICA would be a great place to visit with a Social Studies class. The director of the school, Steven Baileys, was incredibly welcoming to all of us, and encouraged us to volunteer at the Association if (and when) we had the time or desire. He told us that they are in constant need for volunteers for things like conversation practice, pen pals, phone buddies, etc. I think this would be a great thing for not only us, as future teachers, but for all of our future students as well. 

Secondly, if you haven't already done it, or haven't yet considered it, I highly recommend trying out teaching ESL. Teaching English to non-English speakers is a really amazing and rewarding experience that can bring you all over the world, and offer you so many great opportunities. Teaching ESL is really limitless-you can teach a wide age-range from toddlers to the elderly. The curriculum is so vast and makes for new and interesting teaching experiences each and everyday. You can immerse yourself in new countries, or even just stay here, in Victoria. Whatever you want. 

I highly recommend bringing your future Social Studies classes to places like the Intercultural Association-it provides both your own students, as well as the students from ICA, the unique opportunity to listen and learn about other people and other cultures-something that I think should be done more often by more people. 

http://www.icavictoria.org/