This research report provides a review and analysis of online and distance education language training in Canada. The report provides a set of recommendations for the implementation of online and distance education language training, including the need for increased access to online and blended learning opportunities, the need to address integrating culture in language learning, the need to provide robust learner orientation and professional development for instructors, ongoing and multi-modal communications, technical support and the development of a centralized repository of learning objects.
What is this research about?
This research examines the evolving landscape of online and distance education for language training, with a focus on the implications for newcomers to Canada, particularly those in English as a Second Language (ESL) and immigrant integration contexts. The report aims to analyze how emerging digital tools and Web 2.0 technologies influence language learning, and to identify effective practices and challenges in delivering online language education1.
Guiding questions and central objectives:
How can online and distance education language training be effectively delivered to newcomers and other learners?
What are the implications of Web 2.0 and social constructivism for language learning?
What are the best practices in online language teaching and learning, and what roles do instructors and learners play?
How can technology and learning management systems support language acquisition for diverse populations?
What do you need to know? (Context and background)
Relevance: The research is timely given the rapid expansion of digital technologies and the increasing need for flexible, accessible language learning opportunities for newcomers to Canada, including refugees and immigrants.
Advancing Understanding: The report connects traditional second language acquisition theories with new digital learning environments, highlighting the role of social constructivism and Web 2.0 tools (blogs, wikis, podcasts) in fostering interactive, learner-centered language education.
Unique Approach: The study provides a comprehensive review of both open-source and commercial language learning platforms and software, evaluating their usability and applicability for Canadian language learners. It also considers the cultural implications of online learning and the importance of ongoing professional development for instructors.
What did the researchers find? (Key highlights, themes, and outliers)
Key Themes:
Web 2.0 and Social Constructivism: The integration of interactive, collaborative tools supports a more engaging and effective online language learning experience.
Learner and Instructor Roles: Successful online language learners are self-motivated and possess strong digital literacy skills. Instructors need ongoing professional development to effectively facilitate online learning.
Cultural Considerations: Online language learning must be culturally sensitive and relevant, especially for newcomers adapting to life in Canada.
Outlier Findings:
Flexibility and Accessibility: Online learning offers unique opportunities for learners in challenging circumstances, such as refugees awaiting resettlement.
Best Practices: The report identifies specific best practices for interface design, learner readiness, and the use of learning management systems (LMS).
Interesting Themes and Outlier Findings
Web 2.0 Tools: The report highlights the transformative potential of blogs, wikis, and podcasts in language education, which were relatively new at the time.
Cultural Sensitivity: The need for culturally relevant content and teaching methods is emphasized, especially for newcomers.
Learner Readiness: The importance of self-assessment and digital literacy for successful online language learning is a recurring theme.
Unique Opportunity for Refugees: The report notes that online learning can provide language training to refugees even before they arrive in Canada, a novel application at the time.
How can you use this research?
For Educators and Language Trainers:
Adopt Web 2.0 Tools: Integrate blogs, wikis, podcasts, and other interactive tools into language instruction.
Focus on Professional Development: Invest in ongoing training for instructors to adapt to online teaching environments.
Cultural Relevance: Ensure that online content is culturally sensitive and relevant to learners’ backgrounds.
For Policymakers and Program Developers:
Support Flexible Learning Models: Develop policies and programs that facilitate online and distance language learning, especially for newcomers and refugees.
Invest in Technology Infrastructure: Provide access to reliable learning management systems and digital tools.
For Future Research:
Explore New Technologies: Investigate the impact of emerging digital tools on language learning outcomes.
Evaluate Best Practices: Conduct further studies on the effectiveness of specific online teaching strategies and tools.
What did the researchers do? (Methodology)
Literature Review: Extensive review of academic and industry literature on online and distance language learning.
Resource and Program Evaluation: Systematic evaluation of a wide range of language learning websites (e.g., BBC English, English for All), commercial software (e.g., Rosetta Stone, ELLIS), and Canadian-specific resources.
Consultation and Collaboration: Input from language training experts, consultants, and advisors, including representatives from Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Development of Evaluation Templates: Creation of templates to assess the usability and effectiveness of language learning software and platforms.
Demographics/Stakeholders: Focus on newcomers to Canada, refugees, and language instructors, with consideration for diverse cultural backgrounds and learning needs.
Summary Table: Key Points
Aspect
Key Findings/Recommendations
Web 2.0 Tools
Blogs, wikis, podcasts enhance interactivity and engagement
Instructor Role
Requires ongoing professional development
Learner Role
Self-motivation and digital literacy are critical
Cultural Sensitivity
Content must be culturally relevant
Flexibility
Online learning supports refugees and newcomers
Best Practices
Focus on usability, learner readiness, and LMS integration
This environmental scan provides a detailed, sector-specific overview of AI adoption in Canadian settlement services, highlighting both the promise and the challenges of integrating AI in a human-centered, ethical, and collaborative manner. It provides actionable recommendations for organizations, policymakers, and researchers, and sets the stage for future work in this evolving area.
The report analyzes current AI tools, use cases, costs, strengths, limitations, and offers considerations for organizations implementing AI. Researchers examined the current landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and applications in the settlement services sector, focusing on how AI can support Newcomer service delivery. The report summarizes that AI technology should supplement but not replace human interaction and staff positions, emphasizing the sector’s commitment to human-centered service.
What do you need to know?
The guiding questions were:
What are the potential applications of AI in settlement services?
What existing AI tools are being used, and what are their use cases, costs, strengths, and limitations?
What guidelines and policies should organizations consider when using AI?
What are the current implementation practices of AI tools in service provider organizations?
What considerations (legal, privacy, security, accessibility, staff training) must be addressed when using AI?
Context and Relevance:
Settlement service organizations in Canada are increasingly exploring AI to enhance their work.
AI is being used for skill matching, improving service accessibility, and language support.
The research is timely due to growing interest in AI’s potential to increase efficiency, improve accessibility, and generate actionable insights for program delivery.
The report maps the current state of AI adoption and surfacing sector-specific challenges, such as the need for ahuman-centered approach and alignment with organizational values.
What did the researchers find?
Key Highlights:
Benefits of AI:
Automation and service enhancement: AI can automate repetitive tasks, freeing staff for direct client engagement.
Improved accessibility: Tools like chatbots extend reach, offering information and services remotely and outside normal hours.
Data-driven insights: Analytics support reporting and program optimization.
Challenges and Limitations:
Human-centered approach: AI should supplement, not replace, human interaction and jobs.
Alignment with values: AI adoption must fit organizational missions and values.
Data privacy and security: Ongoing monitoring and clear guidelines are essential.
Cost management: Expenses vary widely depending on customization, integration, and subscription needs.
Guidelines and Policies:
Inclusivity: Involve staff, leadership, and clients in AI discussions.
Compliance: Follow relevant legislation and best practices from other sectors.
Transparency: Be open with stakeholders about AI use and practices.
Opportunities for collaboration:
Regional and sectoral organizations, such as Local Immigration Partnerships, can facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building for AI in settlement services.
What are some particularly interesting themes and outlier findings?
Sector-specific caution: There is a strong emphasis on ethics, equity, and the risks of data misuse, not just technical or operational concerns.
AI ‘hallucinations’ and misinformation: The report references research showing newcomers may be vulnerable to incorrect or biased information from generative AI tools, highlighting a unique risk in this context.
Interest in collaborative learning: Organizations are eager to learn from each other and develop shared guidelines, rather than working in isolation.
Diversity of AI adoption: While some organizations are experimenting with advanced tools, others are just beginning to explore AI, reflecting a wide range of familiarity and comfort across the sector.
How can you use this research?
For Service Provider Organizations:
Use the report’s findings to evaluate and guide AI adoption, ensuring alignment with organizational values and mission.
Develop or update internal guidelines for ethical, inclusive, and transparent AI use.
Prioritize staff and client involvement in discussions about AI implementation.
Leverage sector resources and collaborative opportunities for capacity building and shared learning.
For Policymakers and Funders:
Support the development of sector-wide standards and guidelines for AI use in settlement services.
Fund training and capacity-building initiatives focused on ethical and responsible AI adoption.
Encourage research on the impacts of AI on newcomer experiences, especially regarding data privacy and equity.
For Academics and Researchers:
The report identifies a gap in sector-specific research and calls for further study on the impacts, risks, and best practices for AI in settlement services.
Future research should focus on longitudinal impacts, client outcomes, and the development of sector-specific ethical frameworks.
What did the researchers do?
Methods and Activities:
Literature review: Covered scholarly and professional articles, webinars, presentations, and sector documents.
Survey: Conducted with TEQ LIP partner organizations (8 respondents, 14.8% response rate), assessing familiarity, comfort, and knowledge of AI tools.
Key informant interviews: Three interviews conducted, with written input from a fourth expert.
Stakeholder demographics: Respondents represented organizations providing employment, health, case management, and settlement services, with most from organizations with over 100 full-time employees.
The research explores ongoing and emerging digital literacy gaps among newcomers in the Toronto South area, with a focus on how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the sector’s shift to online and hybrid service delivery. Researchers focused on how these changes have impacted newcomer access to essential services, what barriers remain, and what promising practices and supports are needed to address digital literacy deficiencies.
What do you need to know?
The digital divide for newcomers was exacerbated by the pandemic’s push toward digital service delivery. Newcomers, particularly older adults, those with limited language proficiency, and less technologically skilled individuals, face compounded barriers to accessing essential services. The report highlights how pre-existing inequities intensified and how the sector’s rapid transition to digital platforms left significant gaps in support for digital literacy. Researchers discuss how digital literacy fits within broader social and economic participation, recognizing that digital skills are foundational for integration and access to services.
What did the researchers find?
Key findings include:
Digital literacy is multifaceted: It encompasses problem-solving, protecting sensitive information, assessing source credibility, and confidently navigating digital platforms.
Barriers are compounded: Older newcomers, those with low language proficiency, and less technologically skilled individuals face double barriers, making it especially challenging to access essential services.
Service gaps persist: Despite sector efforts, support for digital literacy has often been an afterthought, and calls for increased digital literacy supports have largely gone unmet since 20201.
Community and grassroots organizations play a critical role: These groups have stepped up to fill service gaps and have become more integrated into the newcomer support ecosystem.
Summary Table: Key Recommendations
Recommendation Area
Details
Funding & Resources
Dedicated funding for digital literacy, devices, and instructor hiring
Partnerships
Increase public-private and community partnerships
Accessibility
Open eligibility for all newcomers, regardless of status
Professional Development
Training for staff and community members supporting newcomers
Centralized Programming
Partner with public libraries/school boards for centralized services
Information Sharing
Build and replicate promising practices among organizations
Interesting themes and outlier findings:
Collaboration is key: Effective responses have involved partnerships between agencies, grassroots organizations, and public institutions.
Hybrid service delivery is here to stay: The shift to digital and hybrid service models is not temporary, and ongoing support for digital literacy is essential.
Need for targeted support: There is a clear need for more personalized and successive digital literacy programming, especially for the most vulnerable newcomers.
How can you use this research?
Service providers:
Prioritize digital literacy as a core component of newcomer support.
Develop and deliver personalized, successive digital literacy programming.
Partner with grassroots organizations and public institutions to expand access and share best practices.
Funders:
Allocate dedicated resources and funding for digital literacy initiatives, including device access, instructor hiring, and staff training.
Support public-private partnerships to bridge digital access and learning gaps.
Ensure open eligibility for all newcomers, regardless of status, to access digital literacy programming.
Policymakers and community leaders:
Advocate for centralized digital literacy programming and services.
Promote information sharing and the replication of promising practices across the sector.
The report also recommends future research and ongoing evaluation to ensure that interventions are effective and responsive to the evolving needs of newcomers.
What did the researchers do?
Methods:
Extensive literature review of articles, publications, and research papers on digital literacy among newcomer, low-income, youth, and marginalized groups.
Collaboration with Toronto South Local Immigration Partnership's (TSLIP) Newcomer Services Collaboration Working Group, which includes representatives from newcomer serving agencies, grassroots organizations, and institutions.
Insights and recommendations are based on direct experience and ongoing engagement with the sector since 2020.
Demographics:
Focus on newcomer populations, especially those facing multiple barriers (older adults, low language proficiency, low digital skills).
Emphasis on the Toronto South area, but with relevance to broader Canadian newcomer-serving contexts.
This article examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI), including generative AI, in the management of international migration. It explores the legal and practical considerations for responsible AI implementation by governments, focusing on transparency, regulatory frameworks, and the protection of migrants’ rights.
The author argues that States should be more transparent about their use of AI in international migration management to increase trust, strengthen the rule of law, and ensure accountability. She reviews current advances in AI regulation and highlights the importance of adhering to international human rights law and introduces a framework to support States with the responsible implementation of AI in international migration management.
This research provides a timely, principled roadmap for governments and organizations seeking to implement AI responsibly in international migration management. Its emphasis on transparency, risk assessment, and human rights offers actionable guidance for a range of stakeholders.
AI and generative AI are increasingly used by governments to streamline migration processing, detect fraud, and manage identity verification. Examples include Australia (fraud detection, document analysis), Canada (visa triage), and Germany (identity management, name transliteration, mobile data analysis). Not all States are transparent about their AI use, raising concerns about trust and accountability.
This article provides a legal and ethical analysis, linking practical AI deployment with international human rights obligations. It also offers a structured framework for responsible AI use, emphasizing the “do no harm” principle, risk assessment, and the need for transparency.
What did the researcher find?
Key Highlights:
Transparency is Essential: States should publicly acknowledge their use of AI in migration management to build trust and strengthen the rule of law.
“Transparency is widely recognized as a cornerstone of trust, and this applies equally to the use of AI in international migration management.”
Regulatory Developments: The European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act classifies AI used in migration as “high-risk,” requiring strict compliance with data quality, impact assessments, and risk management.
Human Rights Considerations: Even when national security exceptions apply, States must comply with international human rights law, including privacy and non-discrimination.
Framework for Responsible AI: The research introduces a framework based on the “do no harm” principle, risk assessment, and legal obligations to guide States in responsible AI deployment.
What are some particularly interesting themes and outlier findings?
Transparency vs. Security: There is a lack of uniform transparency, with some States not disclosing their AI use at all. The tension between the need for transparency and national security considerations is a recurring theme. The author argues for a balanced approach that does not compromise migrants’ rights.
Variation in Regulation: Different countries and regions are at varying stages of AI regulation, leading to inconsistencies in how migrants’ rights are protected.
Potential for Harm: Some AI applications in migration (e.g., generative AI for procedural or preparatory tasks) may not be classified as high-risk, potentially leaving gaps in oversight. The framework highlights that harm from AI can be individual, collective, or systemic, emphasizing the importance of thorough risk assessments.
How can you use this research?
For Policymakers:
Adopt and adapt the proposed framework for responsible AI use in migration management.
Increase transparency about AI deployment to build public trust and ensure accountability.
Ensure all AI systems, even those not classified as “high-risk,” are subject to human rights safeguards.
For Practitioners (Migration Authorities, NGOs):
Advocate for clear communication with migrants about how AI is used in their cases.
Implement risk assessment processes to identify and mitigate potential harms.
For Academics and Researchers:
Use the framework as a basis for further research on AI ethics in migration.
Study the impact of transparency measures on public trust and migrant outcomes.
For International Organizations:
Promote harmonized standards for AI use in migration management.
Encourage States to align AI deployment with international human rights obligations.
What did the researchers do?
Methods and Approach:
The research is a legal and policy analysis, synthesizing recent regulatory developments (such as the EU AI Act and the Council of Europe Framework Convention).
It draws on case examples from Australia, Canada, Germany, and the EU.
The paper reviews academic literature on transparency, trust, and the “do no harm” principle in humanitarian and technological contexts.
No primary data collection (such as surveys or interviews) is reported; the analysis is based on policy documents, laws, and existing literature.
Stakeholders Consulted:
The research references government disclosures, international regulatory bodies, and human rights organizations, but does not specify direct stakeholder engagement.
This report looked at the state of evidence for the use of communication apps (specifically cultural-language translation apps) with immigrant seniors in long-term care (LTC) and community settings. The study focused on understanding the acceptability, accessibility, and utility of these digital resources for older immigrant adults who have limited English proficiency, and how these tools impact health equity and care quality.
Cultural-language translation apps are digital applications designed to translate spoken or written language, often incorporating cultural context to enhance communication and understanding, particularly for individuals with limited proficiency in the dominant language of their environment
What do you need to know?
Many older adults revert to their first language as they age, increasing language barriers, creating communication challenges in care settings and potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.
Cultural-language translation apps are relevant in healthcare, where effective communication is essential for safe, person-centered care, informed consent, and daily interactions. They are seen as potential solutions to address shortages in interpretation services and to support staff and caregivers in multicultural environments. While digital translation apps (like Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, Amazon SayHi) are widely available, there is little empirical research on their use, acceptability, and impact in long-term care and community settings for immigrant seniors. There is also a lack of evidence on whether these apps improve health equity or inadvertently widen disparities.
Researchers incorporated a digital health equity framework, explicitly analyzing how these technologies address or reinforce issues like ageism, ableism, and the digital divide in geriatric care.
What did the researchers find?
Researchers highlighted several key points from the background literature and rationale:
Communication Barriers: Language barriers in LTC settings are linked to poorer health outcomes, lower sense of belonging, and increased clinical risks, especially for residents with dementia.
Potential of Apps: Translation apps could help bridge communication gaps, especially where interpretation services are lacking and staff or relatives are relied upon for ad hoc translation.
Research Gaps: There is a research gap in understanding the real-world impact of these apps in elder care, particularly regarding their ability to reduce health inequities among racialized and immigrant seniors.
What are some particularly interesting themes or outlier findings?
Equity Lens: The protocol's explicit focus on using the Digital Health Equity Framework means the review will not only map what is known but also critically assess whether digital solutions are inclusive and beneficial for marginalized populations.
Person-Centered Features: Previous work cited suggests that translation apps in LTC would benefit from more person-centered features, indicating a need for customization and cultural sensitivity.
Practice Gap: Discussions with frontline LTC practitioners reveal a gap in the routine use of these apps, despite their potential, suggesting barriers to adoption or awareness.
How can you use this research?
For Practitioners (LTC staff, community care providers):
Use the findings to inform decisions on adopting or recommending translation apps for immigrant seniors.
Identify best practices and potential pitfalls in integrating such technology into daily care routines.
For Policymakers and Administrators:
Use evidence from the review to guide resource allocation and policy development aimed at improving communication and health equity in elder care.
Support the development or procurement of more culturally and linguistically appropriate digital tools.
For Researchers and Academics:
Identify gaps in the literature and areas for further study, such as the effectiveness, usability, and impact of translation apps on health outcomes and equity.
Build on the review’s findings to design intervention studies or technology development projects.
For Technology Developers:
Use insights on user needs, equity considerations, and person-centered design to create or refine translation apps for elder care settings.
Recommendations for Future Research:
The protocol calls for more empirical studies on the real-world use and impact of translation apps in LTC and community settings, with a focus on health equity and digital inclusion. This is particularly relevant for academics, practitioners, and technology developers.
What did the researchers do?
This protocol set out to systematically map and critically analyze the evidence on the use of communication apps for immigrant seniors in care settings, with a strong focus on health equity and digital inclusion.
Methods & Activities:
This is a scoping review protocol, not a completed study.
Researchers used the five-stage Arksey and O’Malley framework, with enhancements from Levac et al. and Colquhoun et al., and integrate the Digital Health Equity Framework for analysis.
The Joanna Briggs Institute’s Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework was used to define the scope and formulate research questions.
Researchers searched literature from 2005 to 2024 across five multidisciplinary databases (Healthstar OVID, MEDLINE OVID, CINAHL EBSCO, Engineering Village, Web of Science), with input from librarians in health sciences, sociology, and engineering to ensure comprehensive coverage.
No primary data collection was involved; the review analyzed existing published literature.
This is an evaluation report for a year-long digital literacy initiative conducted by Cecil Community Centre in Kensington-Chinatown. Multilingual seniors attended weekly classes, workshops, and optional drop-in sessions to build foundational digital skills. The project focused on Mandarin and Cantonese speakers. The evaluation asked:
To what extent has the program improved participants’ digital literacy and confidence in using technology?
How effectively has the program reduced social isolation among multilingual seniors?
How does the program impact participants’ long-term digital engagement and access to online resources?1
What do you need to know?
Multilingual and non-English-speaking seniors face significant barriers to digital inclusion. This impacts social isolation and can limit access to services they need. This project targeted seniors in a diverse, urban neighbourhood by offering translated instruction and culturally relevant support.
The project provides an important lesson about the need to tailor and customize digital literacy training for specific audiences. Two cohorts of twenty seniors attended 14 weeks of digital literacy classes, with half of the participants attending classes that were translated by a volunteer into Mandarin and Cantonese. Multilingual delivery (Mandarin and Cantonese translation), a community-driven needs assessment and the integration of both quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods, including participant interviews and satisfaction surveys, were important to determine what worked.
The project demonstrates how tailored digital literacy programs can both improve technical skills and foster social connection among marginalized senior populations. The program's structure, combining group workshops, one-on-one support, and community celebration, offers a replicable model for similar communities. This project mirrors the findings of the WESO project's client digital literacy experiment which answered a simple but complex question: what is the bare minimum training for Newcomers that would improve the likelihood that they might access online services?
What did the researchers find?
Key Themes:
Skill Improvement: 100% of surveyed participants reported improved digital skills (32.81% "significantly," and 67.19% "somewhat"). None reported no change or decline.
High Satisfaction: 100% of Cohort B participants were very satisfied with program support, and all would recommend the program to other seniors.
Broader Impacts: All Cohort B respondents noted improvements in other life areas (health, employment, education) due to digital literacy gains.
Engagement: Consistent attendance and strong interest in continuing digital learning were observed.
Popular Topics: Cybersecurity, using mobile apps, social media, video calling, and accessing community/government resources were most valued. One-third of respondents highlighted cybersecurity as especially relevant.
Desire for More Practice: 31% wanted more hands-on time with computers.
Unmet Needs: Participants requested future workshops on AI, Microsoft Excel, online shopping, and device troubleshooting.
Participant Quotes:
“Once you open up the computer, you open up the world.”
“The most useful part is showing us how to use the 211 and 311 website.”
“At the very least, I have realized how important the computer is to my life. I want to keep improving.”
“I don't speak English well, but I want to practice using English on the computers more often.”
Outlier Findings & Themes:
Language Barriers: Non-English speakers especially valued translated sessions and expressed a desire to practice English digitally.
Social Connection: Learning digital communication tools (e.g., WhatsApp, group chats) helped participants connect with friends and organize community events.
No Major Challenges: Interviewed participants reported no significant challenges, citing supportive staff and volunteers.
How can you use this research?
For Community Organizations:
Replicate the model of needs-based, multilingual digital literacy programs to address both technical and social needs of seniors.
Prioritize translation and culturally relevant instruction to maximize accessibility and impact.
For Policymakers and Funders:
Support and fund similar targeted digital inclusion initiatives, especially in diverse urban neighbourhoods.
Recognize the broader social and health benefits of digital literacy for seniors.
For Practitioners and Educators:
Incorporate participant feedback to offer more hands-on practice and expand curriculum topics (AI, troubleshooting, etc.).
Use program satisfaction and skill improvement data to refine and justify program design.
For Researchers:
Build on the mixed-methods evaluation approach, combining surveys, interviews, and attendance tracking.
Explore longitudinal impacts of digital literacy on social isolation and access to services.1
Recommendations for Future Research:
Extend program duration and curriculum breadth.
Investigate long-term digital engagement and social outcomes for multilingual seniors.
Target practitioners, academics, and policymakers for ongoing evaluation and best practice development.1
What did the researchers do?
Methods & Activities:
Needs Assessment: Conducted in spring 2024 to shape curriculum.
Participants: 40 seniors (two cohorts of 20), with half attending Mandarin/Cantonese-translated sessions.
Program Delivery: 14 weeks of digital literacy classes per cohort, including workshops and drop-in sessions for one-on-one support.
Evaluation Tools:
End-of-program surveys (32 responses, 80% response rate), including multiple-choice and open-ended questions, translated into Chinese as needed.
Three in-depth participant interviews (with translation support for non-English speakers).
Attendance tracking for engagement analysis.
Literature review to inform best practices and evaluation design.
Demographics: Focused on multilingual, predominantly Chinese-speaking seniors in Kensington-Chinatown, Toronto.
Celebration: Digital Literacy Showcase event with over 50 attendees to mark program completion.
This research report details the Josoor Project, an Arab Community Centre of Toronto (ACCT) project aimed at improving settlement services for vulnerable newcomer and refugee women in Ontario. The project identified four key barriers hindering their integration:
language
socio-economic status
geographic location
digital skills
To address these challenges, ACCT developed a prototype service delivery model which includes providing hardware (laptops) and internet connectivity, offering digital literacy training in English and Arabic, and establishing a digital service protocol for service providers.
Main Themes and Key Ideas
Addressing Barriers to Digital Integration: The central theme of the report is the identification and analysis of the significant barriers that prevent newcomer refugee women from effectively using technology to access settlement services and information.
The report provides in-depth findings on each of the four barriers, supported by quantitative data from surveys and qualitative insights from focus groups:
Language Barrier: A prominent barrier, significantly impacting access to services and correct information. The need for interpreters is high, especially for those with lower formal education, Government Assisted Refugees (GARs), larger families, and older participants. Understanding bureaucratic language in areas like banking and immigration is also a challenge.
Socioeconomic Status Barrier: An inability to afford necessary devices and reliable internet access. While most participants own smartphones, ownership of laptops is significantly lower, often requiring sharing within households, which prioritizes children's educational needs during periods of remote learning. The cost of reliable internet is also a major issue.
Geographic Barrier: While not as prominent as other barriers in the survey data, the report highlights the difficulties of accessing in-person services due to long distances and the cost, inconvenience, and impracticality of public transit, particularly in suburban areas and during winter. Remote services are often preferred for their convenience and ease with childcare.
Digital Skills Barrier: This barrier is closely linked to the others, particularly language and socioeconomic status. Some Newcomer women lack the necessary skills to effectively use laptops and navigate Canada's digital environment, which is more computer-dependent than smartphone-dependent. There is a strong willingness to learn new digital skills if support is provided. Misinformation online is also a significant concern.
Service Provider Capacity and Digital Transformation: The report also examines the digital capacity of settlement service providers, noting a lack of standardized frameworks and resources for digital service provision. While some agencies are experimenting with digital tools, there is a need for adequate resourcing, professional development, and clear guidelines for remote and hybrid service delivery. The report highlights the emergence of "Digital Navigators" as a crucial support role in the sector.
Development and Testing of a New Approach (Josoor's Prototype): Based on the research findings, the Josoor project developed a multi-component prototype designed to address the identified barriers and improve Newcomer women's access to settlement services and information.
How can you use this research?
The findings of this report have significant implications for settlement service design and delivery in Canada. Addressing the interconnected digital barriers is crucial for promoting equitable access to information and services for vulnerable Newcomer populations. The Josoor prototype offers a potential model for a more client-centred and technologically-enabled approach to settlement support. The results of the ongoing pilot study will provide valuable evidence to inform future policy and practice in the settlement sector.
Other immigrant and refugee-serving organizations can use the research from the Josoor project in several significant ways to improve their service delivery, particularly in leveraging technology to support Newcomer and refugee women:
Understand the Barriers: The report identifies and details four primary barriers that hinder Newcomer refugee women from digitally integrating into Canada: language, socio-economic status, geographic location, and digital skills.
Learn from the Josoor Prototype: The report presents Josoor's prototype as a "new approach" designed to mitigate the identified barriers. Other organizations can review and potentially adopt or adapt components of this prototype for their own service delivery models.
Build Sector Capacity: The research explicitly aims to build the settlement sector's capacity to serve vulnerable populations remotely or through a hybrid approach. By sharing what has been learned, the project contributes to the "knowledge base of what does and does not work in remote service delivery". The report highlights the challenges settlement agencies face, such as limited resources, lack of staff training, and the difficulty in quickly transitioning to remote services. Other organizations can use this information to understand common challenges and advocate for necessary support and funding.
Strategy, strategy, strategy. That's what you'll hear when you read any good social media or technology in human service article. It's an essential piece of getting started, doing it well, learning from your forays into technology use, and refining your approach.
This a great, practical read about how your human service organization can approach technology as a community engagement and community development tool. The research highlights that social media is a tool, not a universal solution. Its effectiveness requires strategic planning, organizational capacity, and understanding the diverse ways communities interact online. The report provides a framework and recommendations for nonprofits to consider when using social media to connect with vulnerable groups.
It gets nicely beyond the hype and gives you a solid grounding in the strategic approach you and your organization need to take to move forward successfully with technology in your service delivery toolkit.
“Social media has become a new buzzword in nonprofits and other organizations – heralded by many as a new way to reach and engage marginalized populations and to support significant progress in community development, mobilization and social change.
This report explores the role and function of social media as a tool for community engagement, in order to uncover enabling social media strategies and interventions that can be used to engage low-income and marginalized populations. Drawing on an extensive literature review and community interviews, this report highlights the usefulness and challenges of social media as a potential strategy and tool for engagement. It highlights key considerations and approaches for utilizing social media for community development and for engaging with low-income populations.
This research finds that utilizing social media – or any other communication and engagement strategy – requires careful planning and consideration related to mission, strategy and capacity. In particular, this research finds that social media is no silver bullet, highlighting the importance both of nonprofit capacity in developing and running any social media strategy and of understanding how diverse communities access, use and engage on social media.”
Key recommendations:
Use existing tools and outlets
Use strategic planning tools
Start with mission and strategy, then tools and activities
Develop service and support policies and expectations
Build into funding, where possible
Support internal capacity building
Build content and technical skills expertise
Make sure ethics and privacy are at the forefront
Take the time to develop plans for gathering data and evaluating services, and online engagement strategies
This research examines the potential impacts, both positive and negative, of Generative AI (GenAI) on Black communities in Canada. The study aims to provide business and policy leaders with guidance for creating an AI-powered future that mitigates potential negative impacts and creates inclusive opportunities for Black communities.
"In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Generative AI (GenAI) emerges as a pivotal technology with the potential to redefine industries and societal norms. Our latest report, The future is equitable: Balancing the impact of GenAI on Canada's Black communities delves into the profound implications of GenAI for equity, inclusion, and the socio-economic advancement of Black communities in Canada.
Explore the full report to discover how strategic, ethical, and inclusive approaches to GenAI can open new opportunities for equity, prosperity, and growth for Canadian organizations and Black communities across Canada. Organizations have an economic imperative to deploy equitable solutions: by embracing GenAI with a focus on strategic planning, ethics, and inclusivity, businesses can bridge equity gaps while unlocking new avenues for growth. These technologies can revolutionize sectors like healthcare, education, and business, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic advancement."
What do you need to know?
Black communities have historically faced discrimination and systemic inequities in various forms, affecting their social, economic, and educational conditions.
The research is unique in examining the intersection of GenAI technology with racial equity issues in a Canadian context.
Key categories: Technology equity, racial justice, AI ethics, business transformation
GenAI could add $187 billion in productivity gains to Canada's economy by 2030
Currently, one in seven Canadian businesses are using GenAI
What did the researchers do?
Conducted a survey of 646 executives across Canada
Held focus groups with executives
Analyzed how inequity in AI systems manifests in models and algorithms
Developed use cases demonstrating responsible AI practices
Created a framework for action to ensure inclusive AI development
What did the researchers find?
Key findings include:
Early adopters of GenAI (64%) showed more concern about its impact on racialized groups than non-adopters (36%)
Only 15% of workforce leaders felt prepared to use AI and GenAI tools
Only 30% of organizations felt equipped to handle ethical concerns about GenAI raised by Black and racialized team members
Black Canadians comprise just 2.6% of Canada's tech workers, despite making up 4.3% of the population
Main areas of concern were human resources, diversity and inclusion, legal compliance, customer support, and finance
Specific mentions of Black immigrants:
The report uses an example of "Jennett, a new immigrant who has English as a second language, impeccable academic credentials, and promising career prospects" to illustrate how GenAI could help overcome barriers that new immigrants face in navigating financial landscapes and building generational wealth.
In discussing workforce representation, the report notes that "Black Canadians and new immigrants comprised just 2.6% of Canada's tech workers, compared with 4.3% of the country's population."
The report mentions that "Black immigrants and Black Canadians face additional barriers in the workplace, stemming from a lack of recognition for achievements and credentials, limited access to career advancement, and systemic racism."
There is a mention of a case study about LIFT Impact Partners, a national non-profit organization that helps newcomers find meaningful employment. The organization is working with Deloitte to develop "a multilingual enhanced technology solution that leverages GenAI to help social purpose organizations aid newcomers in finding jobs that better reflect their skills, experiences, and expertise."
The report mentions that GenAI solutions could be used to "recognize and translate dialects, idioms, and cultural nuances specific to Black communities and new immigrants."
Broad themes:
Leveraging GenAI with a focus on diversity and inclusion is more than a social responsibility—it's a strategic imperative that can drive economic growth and deliver a competitive advantage. For instance, the Black consumer market in the US is projected to reach $1.8 trillion in 2024, illustrating the vast potential of inclusive market strategies. By applying a similar approach in Canada, businesses can unlock new markets, foster innovation, and enhance financial performance, positioning themselves as leaders in a rapidly evolving landscape.
GenAI systems that lack diversity risk perpetuating biases and alienating equity-seeking users, leading to negative experiences, reduced trust, and decreased engagement. To ensure broader adoption and long-term success, organizations must develop GenAI tools that reflect the diversity of their user base.
There is an urgent need for robust policy frameworks and ethical guidelines to govern the deployment of GenAI solutions. Only 1 in 20 leaders surveyed were confident that current organizational AI and ethical frameworks could address issues related to bias and discrimination. While 78% of leaders surveyed believed that GenAI systems should undergo regular audits for bias and fairness. To mitigate risks and build trust, it is crucial for organizations to prioritize AI model transparency and accountability. By implementing clear guidelines for AI usage, ensuring explain-ability, and regularly auditing AI models, businesses can reduce the risk of bias, enhance decision-making, and demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices.
Diverse perspectives enhance problem-solving, innovation, and ethical decision-making, leading to better-performing AI systems and more equitable solutions across various sectors. Over 60% of survey respondents believed that diverse AI teams could be the key to mitigating bias in AI systems.
Black professionals and Equity Seeking Groups (ESGs) who upskill now and embrace the current wave of AI innovation will position themselves for future success. With fewer than 25% of Canadian businesses actively using GenAI solutions regularly, those who grasp the potential of these technologies early will gain a significant competitive advantage.
How can you use this research?
For Business Leaders:
Implement responsible AI practices from the start of development
Consider demographic and social factors in AI design
Invest in equity-based AI design to reduce legal risks and expand market share
For Policy Makers:
Develop robust regulatory frameworks for AI governance
Support initiatives that increase Black representation in tech sectors
Ensure AI benefits are accessible to all Canadians
For Practitioners:
Focus on inclusive AI development practices
Address bias in AI systems proactively
Consider cultural contexts in AI implementation
Future Research Recommendations:
Further study on effective bias mitigation strategies
Research on long-term impacts of GenAI on employment equity
Investigation of best practices for inclusive AI development
