|
What is Project
SHINE?
SHINE stands for "Students Helping in the Naturalization of Elders." It
is a program that gives students from San Francisco State University
(SFSU) and City College of San Francisco (CCSF) a chance to gain
real-world teaching (coaching) experience and course credit while
helping older immigrants become citizens.
When and where do
the student coaches volunteer?
Student coaches volunteer at a time that is convenient for them, in
City College Citizenship/ESL classes at sites all over the city.
Coaches
are needed for weekday, evening, and weekend classes.
How do the coaches
learn what to do?
A training workshop is held at the beginning of the semester. At that
time, coaches also receive an extensive training manual. Coaches
volunteer in classrooms with experienced ESL/Citizenship instructors
who suggest activities for practice with learners.
Can you give
examples of what coaches do?
Coaches may practice the citizenship interview as a role-play exercise;
help learners memorize answers to the test questions asked by the
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; explain the importance of
eye
contact, a firm handshake, and other appropriate cultural gestures;
review citizenship material taught in class; and talk with learners
about their lives. Coaches will usually work one-on-one or in small
groups with learners.
What is the coaching
time commitment?
Coaches spend two or two and a half hours per week working in a CCSF
Citizenship/ESL class for about 10 weeks during the semester.
What if I don't
speak a foreign language and can't communicate with the learners?
It's sometimes helpful to be able to use the learner's native language to explain
difficult concepts, but it's not necessary. If you are bilingual or multilingual,
the instructor will provide guidance on when it's appropriate to use native languages
in his or her class.
How does Project
SHINE relate to coursework at SFSU and CCSF?
Coaches write papers and prepare presentations that link theoretical
knowledge from a class with their real-world coaching experience. Your
professor will usually suggest an appropriate project for you.
Do I have to be a
citizen to participate in Project SHINE?
No, that's not necessary. In fact, as an added benefit, while
participating in SHINE, coaches may learn enough to prepare themselves
and
family members to pass the naturalization exam.
Do I have to be enrolled
in a course that offers credit for Project SHINE in order to participate?
No, that's not necessary. If you are enrolled as a CCSF or SFSU student, you may participate in
Project SHINE as a volunteer even if you are not receiving academic credit in a class. You
are still required to commit to at least 20 hours of coaching during the semester and must still
record your time and turn in a signed timesheet. All coaches, whether receiving academic credit
or not, must sign a Coach Agreement and follow the guidelines stated therein.
How can I find out
more about Project SHINE?
Click here for
Project SHINE
contact information.
|
