Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT) - Level C and D

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As more and more immigrants arrive in Canada and begin their new lives, one of their first concerns is securing employment. The significance of understanding and being aware of cultural nuances becomes paramount for both the newcomer and everyone they interact with.

Intercultural understanding is often challenging due to the differences in verbal and non-verbal communication. Some factors include misunderstandings, false assumptions, misinterpretations, discomfort at being around certain culture-specific behaviours and habits, and more importantly, lack of knowledge in how to address these concerns in an effective and sensitive manner.

Differences may be overt, such as dress code, or such as coming from a culture where taking initiative is considered aggressive. Differences can also be seen in corporate structure. In one culture, a job title may explain hierarchy within an organization. A title may also have different functions within different organizations.

Overcoming cultural differences involves awareness, knowledge, and skills.

Awareness: Being aware that your mentor may be acting or speaking contrary to your expectations simply due to their own cultural norms and language interpretation.

Knowledge: Applying your understanding of cultural differences to resolve both obvious and not so obvious culture-bound situations you may be in.

Skills: Bringing together your awareness that cultural differences exist and the knowledge that you may be acting in a culture-specific way and applying positive regard, communication and non-judgmental listening.

In striving to provide clients with a high level of service, COSTI staff make every effort to address, and assist clients with issues they may be facing as they begin life in Canada. Check back soon to find information that will help you cope with:

Feelings of isolation and feeling like you don’t belong

Dealing with conflicting work and family responsibilities while trying to attend English language studies

Accessing outreach programs, programs to help you understand the Canadian culture

Getting in touch with community groups that share your language or culture

Accessing social services

Enrolling your children in school

Securing housing

Finding a job

COSTI has a large library of reading and resource materials, as well as detailed listings of monthly cultural events to help students improve and practice their English. Check back soon for a full listing.