Culture shock takes many forms, and some Case Western Reserve University students suffer its affects. However, it is not always apparent that the symptoms students present are due to culture shock.
Faculty may notice students have decreased class attendance, a decline in work quality or seem more emotional than usual—or emotionally distraught—but may not realize the underlying cause of those symptoms (and many others) could be culture shock.
This issue reaches beyond international students to study abroad returnees, third-culture kids and many others on campus. Understanding how to recognize and support students—and colleagues—with culture shock can help attendees assist others through difficult periods.
At the next University Center for Innovation in Teaching and Education (UCITE) session, Elizabeth Miller, assistant director of international student services, will address culture shock. She will discuss what culture shock is and how it manifests, how it has presented in students during her time working with them, and how to help students make it through it.
Attendees will also be given examples to discuss and ample time for questions.
This UCITE session will be held Thursday, Sept. 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in the Allen Memorial Medical Library’s Herrick Room.
A pizza lunch will be provided during the session. RSVP to ucite@case.edu.