What is this research about?

The research focused on understanding the needs and gaps in employment support services for skilled Newcomers in Canada. The study identified the needs and gaps in labour market integration supports for Newcomers and to determine which services are most effective in helping them secure employment that matches their skills and qualifications.

What do you need to know?

The research assesses various aspects of the services provided, such as employment counseling, networking events, and work placements, and their impact on employment outcomes. It targets skilled Newcomers who have utilized employment services to integrate into the Canadian labour market.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers used a mixed-methods approach:

1. Online Surveys: Conducted with skilled Newcomers who had previously used employment services, focusing on their demographics, the services they used, and their current employment status. They analyzed survey responses to identify demographic characteristics, service usage, satisfaction, challenges, and labour market outcomes.
2. Focus Group Interviews: Two sets of focus group interviews were conducted. The first set with service providers to understand the challenges and effective strategies in service delivery, and the second set to validate and deepen the findings from the online survey.

What did the researchers find?

• Employment Supports: Newcomers primarily used employment counseling, networking events, and training/skills upgrading.
• Satisfaction: Overall satisfaction with services was high, with most respondents willing to recommend the services.
• Challenges: Major challenges included the lengthy and costly Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) process, and low awareness of services. Women with children face more significant challenges due to childcare needs, impacting their ability to benefit from these services.
• Effectiveness: Employment counseling, networking events, and work placements were strongly associated with successful labour market outcomes. However, training and skills upgrading did not show a significant impact after controlling for individual characteristics.
• Service Gaps: Pre-arrival services were under-used due to low awareness. However, they are highly beneficial if engaged before Newcomers arrive in Canada. Customized and targeted solutions, such as specialized networking events and industry-specific mentorships, were suggested as improvements.
• Virtual delivery: "Service providers noted the increase in attendance and enrollment in employment services since the switch to virtual delivery. Some of this may be explained by the benefits of the virtual delivery, such as less need for childcare and transportation. Some said that the geographic area of Newcomers using the services increased, with more participants living further from urban centres able to participate. They noted that digital literacy was not an issue for the skilled Newcomers; however, access to hardware could be a barrier. ISAs concluded that virtual delivery is here to stay and might potentially be modified into a hybrid model. They also noted, however, that a hybrid model may require additional funding."
• Awareness of services: "The survey results confirmed what practitioners mentioned in the first focus group ― that awareness of the services is low. Participants suggested that creative solutions were required to alleviate the awareness issue. Focus group participants also emphasized the importance of getting to Newcomers earlier. Some service providers noted that Newcomers sometimes visited regular employment service organizations (not immigrant focused) and did not receive targeted services. When they eventually did connect to the immigrant service agencies, they were often frustrated and had already spent time pursuing services not customized to their specific needs. Providers wished that the employment service agencies would be more prompt in referring Newcomers to the immigrant-serving organizations equipped to help."

How can you use this research?

This research provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of employment services for skilled Newcomers and offers practical recommendations for enhancing these services to better meet their needs and improve their integration into the Canadian labour market. Use the insights from this research to refine service offerings, focusing on the most impactful services as identified in the study, and consider new services based on emerging needs.

• Service Providers: Enhance awareness and accessibility of services, especially pre-arrival services. Focus on providing customized, targeted solutions to address specific Newcomer needs. Develop services that address specific needs of skilled Newcomers, such as credential recognition support and tailored employment counseling. Improve outreach and information dissemination about available services to ensure Newcomers can access these supports promptly upon arrival. Introduce flexible service schedules and virtual service options to accommodate the unique needs of Newcomer women with children.
• Policymakers: Consider reducing regulatory barriers and increasing support for the FCR process. Implement policies to improve early engagement with Newcomers and provide accurate information about available services.
• Employers: Participate in collaborative efforts with service providers to improve labour market integration for skilled Newcomers. Offer work placements and mentorship opportunities to support Newcomers' transition into the workforce.

What is this research about?

This report explores how smartphones, viewed as essential lifeline devices, can be designed to better serve individuals in vulnerable, disadvantaged, or transitional contexts. It emphasizes the critical role smartphones play in providing access to resources, services, and vital communication, especially in precarious situations such as natural disasters, migration, and poverty.

What do you need to know?

Key insights from the research emphasize the multifaceted use of smartphones beyond conventional consumer applications. Smartphones are increasingly becoming integral in managing crises, supporting refugees, and aiding those in poverty. The study highlights the importance of considering these devices as more than just communication tools but as critical resources for safety, identity management, and access to essential services. The research also points out the potential vulnerabilities and dependencies created by smartphone use, which can lead to issues of privacy, security, and increased risk in certain contexts. Key areas to understand include:

• The current role and impact of smartphones in vulnerable communities.
• Design principles and factors for creating more effective and supportive smartphones.
• Challenges and ethical considerations in technology design for disadvantaged users.
• How smartphones can act as both lifelines and liabilities due to their current design and dependency.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers conducted a literature review, engaged in community and expert interviews, and analysis to identify design principles that would enhance the utility of smartphones for support, services, and survival. They examined various levels of computing—society, infrastructure, data, device—and their impact on vulnerable communities. The study included interviews with technology designers, community researchers, and non-profits to fill knowledge gaps and frame the analysis. They focused on three key vulnerable groups: those living through disaster or crisis situations, refugees and migrants, and people living in poverty or experiencing economic precarity.

What did the researchers find?

Smartphones act as "gateway devices" for almost all other digital services and resources. However, the study also found that the current design and deployment of smartphones often amplify existing vulnerabilities, exposing users to risks such as data privacy issues and increased surveillance. The research identified a lack of deep, contextual understanding of how smartphones are used by disadvantaged communities in the Global North, leading to design assumptions that do not align with the actual needs and risks faced by these users.

The research identified other interesting findings:

• Smartphones are essential lifelines in vulnerable contexts, providing critical access to information, safety, coordination, and resources. Smartphones are indispensable in managing personal crises and accessing vital resources.
• There are four common themes across vulnerable communities: dependency on smartphones, digital identity issues, user agency, and the impact of design multipliers such as time and scale.
• Smartphones can amplify vulnerabilities by exposing users to risks like surveillance, data breaches, and loss of connectivity.
• There is a significant lack of research and understanding about how to design smartphones that cater to the real-world needs of disadvantaged users.
• Cross-sectoral collaboration is necessary to address these challenges and develop ethical and effective design solutions.

Important findings related to refugees (quotes are directly from the report):

• Smartphones as connectors, way-finders and passports, helping refugees to bridge the contexts of where they came from and where they are going. Mobile phones are widely thought of as being ‘the social glue of migrant transnationalism’. A UNHCR and Accenture research study conducted in 44 countries found that many refugees consider mobile and internet access as critical to their safety and security as food, water and shelter. Refugees often spend up to a third of their disposable income on internet and mobile services, which reflects that staying connected is expensive, but also indispensable. One study puts it simply in this quote from a refugee: “It is hard to think of a more useful thing to own than a smartphone, especially if you’re fleeing your home.”
• Dependency on smartphones is a key factor for communities living through disasters, migrants and refugees or communities living in poverty. Dependency here is understood not as a question of habit or addiction, but rather as a critical relationship with a phone as a way of getting vital access to resources and impacting a user’s fundamental freedoms (identity, mobility, rights etc). This means that smartphones act as ‘gateway devices’, providing access to essential elements through which everything else can be accessed; from access to up-to-date information, to shelter, money, healthcare and support.
• An increasing amount of innovation can be found in this space, with UNHCR endorsing the increased use of biometrics for identifying and tracking refugees. This can be extremely valuable in providing essential services, such as reuniting families, but there are also increasing concerns about the disproportionate use of digital IDs. For example, the use of digital ID to access basic services such as access to food. Refugees in a state of dis-empowerment have little choice but to consent to the formation of these identities, giving up ownership of their fingerprints, irises and faces in exchange for basic necessities. The added permanence of these states through technology and policy lead to the further consolidation of power, as secure implementations of trust tend towards authoritarian politics.
• An existing community of app and technology makers – some of whom are refugees themselves – are seeking to support the development of smartphones for this group, from ways to navigate train systems to apps for Syrian refugees to navigate German bureaucracy... There are currently over 700 apps that have been developed specifically for refugees, many of which have few to no users. This has led to some words of caution from relief agencies about the enthusiasm of tech developers rushing in to help without really understanding the practical, social, psychological or political dynamics of this community. Well-meaning time is often spent developing solutions that don’t work, aren’t appropriate or connected to the communities in their roll-out, and in some cases may exacerbate and compound problems. However, some that are significant and helpful have emerged, mostly developed in collaboration with humanitarian organisations.

How can you use this research?

If you work in technology design, humanitarian aid, or public policy, this research can guide you in several ways. By integrating these insights, professionals in the sector can contribute to more inclusive and supportive technology design that meets the needs of all users, especially the most vulnerable.

• Design for Real-World Needs: Develop smartphones with features that address the specific challenges faced by vulnerable communities, such as durable and reliable devices, energy efficiency, and accessible connectivity. Engage with communities to understand their specific needs and challenges, ensuring that smartphone designs are user-centered and contextually relevant. Incorporate the findings to develop smartphones that prioritize reliability, accessibility, and security, particularly for users in unstable environments.
• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Work with non-profits, community groups, and other stakeholders to understand the unique needs of different user groups and co-create solutions. Educate stakeholders about the critical role of smartphones in different contexts and the need for a shift in design philosophy from consumer-focused to lifeline-oriented.
• Ethical Considerations: Incorporate ethical design principles to protect user privacy, enhance security, and ensure that technology empowers rather than exploits vulnerable users.
• Policy Development: Advocate for policies that support equitable access to technology and address the socio-economic factors affecting smartphone dependency. Use the research to advocate for policies that recognize the essential role of smartphones in supporting vulnerable populations and regulate data use to protect privacy and reduce surveillance risks.
• Innovative Solutions: Leverage insights from this research to create innovative tools and applications that can improve the quality of life for those in precarious situations, such as emergency communication systems and resource mapping apps.

You may notice that the PDF is not very readable on your screen. I have no idea why a report like this, particularly focused on smartphones would be designed so inexplicably inaccessible on any device, especially on a smartphone.

What is this research about?

This research explores the integration and trends of technology in social work over three decades (1985-2018). It aims to identify how different technologies have been adopted in various social work domains by analyzing a large sample of scholarly literature. It aims to identify how technology has been adopted across various domains of social work practice and to pinpoint the specific types of technologies that have been utilized.

What do you need to know?

New information and communication technologies have amplified the capabilities of social workers in reaching out to a large number of people more effectively. Telehealth, online counseling via videoconferencing, smartphone apps, and cloud storage are examples of innovative technologies that social workers have adopted to serve their clients. Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms are now increasingly being used to address broader social issues and influence social policies. Online learning components and simulations are now vital to educational programs at schools of social work.

However, researchers assert that there is a gap in the scholarly literature regarding the detailed use of technology in social work, providing insights into both historical and contemporary trends, such as:

• The types of technologies being used in different social work practice domains.
• Trends and changes in technology use over time.
• Gaps in research regarding technology in social work.

They seek to address that gap, in particular looking at what types of technologies are being used in what kinds of
social work practice domains.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers conducted a comprehensive review using a hybrid approach of text mining and human-assisted analyses. They analyzed 892 articles from the Journal of Technology in Human Services (JTHS) using:

• Topic modeling with the MALLET tool to identify patterns and topics.
• Human-assisted analyses using QDA Miner and MS-Excel to refine and validate the topics.

What did the researchers find?

They identified 29 social work practice domains and 27 technology domains, highlighting the diverse integration of technology in social work. Technologies such as Management Information Systems (MIS), telehealth, online education, and communication technologies like email and videoconferencing are among the most discussed. Other findings include:

• Top Social Work Domains Engaging with Technology: Social work education, mental health and clinical social work, administration and management of nonprofits, health care, and public welfare.
• Top Technology Domains: Management information systems (MIS), communication technology, generic computer/technology usage, and education technology.
• Trends Over Time:
  • Long-term interests in MIS and education technology.
  • Recent increases in research on mental health and justice/corrections.
  • Limited research in areas like aging, sexual violence, school social work, and gender inequality.
• Technology Adoption Patterns: Newer technologies (e.g., AI, telehealth, social networking) are gaining more attention, while some older technologies (e.g., generic computer use) are seeing decreased interest.

How can you use this research?

This report offers a comprehensive overview of how technology has been woven into the fabric of social work practice, providing valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers in the field, as well as in adjacent fields, such as the Immigrant and Refugee-serving sector. Specific ways the report can be used:

• Guidance on Technology Integration: Understanding which technologies have been effectively integrated into social work can guide decisions on adopting new tools and platforms. Implement and leverage technologies like MIS, communication tools, and e-mental health interventions to enhance service delivery and efficiency in social work practice.
• Policy and Decision Making: Insights from the research can assist in developing policies that support the ethical and effective use of technology in social work practices. Use the findings to inform policies on technology adoption in social work practice.
• Educational Programs: Integrate relevant technologies into social work curricula to prepare students for current and future practice environments. Identifying trends in technology usage can help social workers and educators develop relevant skills and knowledge, ensuring they remain effective and efficient in their roles.
• Research and Development: Identify gaps in existing research to explore new areas for investigation, particularly in under-researched domains. The study highlights gaps and opportunities for further research and innovation in technology use within social work, providing a foundation for future academic and practical contributions.

Abstract

Multicultural media serve as important sources of information for immigrant settlement. However, little is known about the role of multicultural media in the process of immigrant settlement. Our aim was to address this gap and to advance understanding of multicultural media use and immigrant settlement through a detailed empirical study involving four ethnocultural and immigrant communities (EICs)—the Chinese, Spanish-speaking Latin American, Somali, and South Asian—in Ottawa, Canada. Using a conceptual framework combining notions of immigrant contexts of reception, and immigrant settlement and information seeking, we present and analyze the findings of a large survey data set (N= 1212) comparing types of multicultural print, broadcast, and digital media use by immigration category, length of stay, and yearly household income. Based on our findings, we argue that variations exist in the use of multicultural media both within and across the four participating EICs; while factors such as availability of multicultural media as well as length of stay in Canada and, to some extent, household income play a role, immigration category is less significant. Furthermore, we advance that although EICs do use various types of multicultural media, they tend to favor digital media. These findings contribute to improved understanding of the role of multicultural media use in the everyday lives of EICs and provide directions for future research and for the development of relevant policies and practices to address immigrant information needs and facilitate their settlement process.

What is this research about?

This research investigates the role of multicultural media in the settlement process of immigrants in Ottawa, Canada. It focuses on four ethnocultural and immigrant communities (EICs): Chinese, Spanish-speaking Latin American, Somali, and South Asian. The study aims to understand how these communities use different types of multicultural media (print, broadcast, and digital) and how factors such as immigration category, length of stay, and household income influence media use.

What do you need to know?

• The four communities involved in the study were Chinese, Spanish-speaking Latin American, Somali, and South Asian.
• This report is part of a broader collaborative, interdisciplinary project - the Ottawa Multicultural Media - conducted in partnership with the City of Ottawa, whose aim is to examine the role of multicultural media in fostering the settlement, integration, and well-being of Ottawa’s EICs. Researchers administered 1600 surveys in Ottawa’s Chinese, Spanish-speaking Latin American, Somali, and South Asian communities (400 per community) using paper and electronic forms. A total of 1212 usable surveys were retained with a response rate of about 75%.
• The types of multicultural media examined was print, broadcast, and digital.
• The factors analyzed in relation to media use included immigration category, length of stay, and yearly household income).
• The general trends and specific findings related to media consumption within and across the four communities.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers conducted a detailed empirical study using a large survey dataset (N=1212) to compare the use of multicultural media among the four EICs in Ottawa. They analyzed the data to identify patterns of media use and examined the influence of immigration category, length of stay, and household income on media consumption.

What did the researchers find?

• Variations in Media Use: There are significant variations in the use of multicultural media both within and across the four EICs. Factors such as availability of multicultural media, length of stay in Canada, and household income influence media use, while immigration category is less significant.
• Preference for Digital Media: Despite using various types of multicultural media, EICs tend to favor digital media. Broadcast TV is consumed more than radio, but radio consumption rates are relatively similar across communities. Print media consumption is highest among the Chinese community and lowest among the Somali community.
• Influencing Factors: Availability of multicultural media, length of stay in Canada, and household income play a role in media use, while immigration category is less significant.
• Role of Multicultural Media: Multicultural media serve as important sources of information for immigrant settlement, helping immigrants navigate their new environment and meet their settlement-related information needs. Local multicultural media sources vary in availability between the communities, impacting consumption patterns.

How can you use this research?

This research provides valuable insights into the role of multicultural media in the settlement process of immigrants, highlighting the importance of media accessibility and the need for targeted support to facilitate successful integration. Collaboration between government agencies, media producers, and immigrant organizations can ensure that the content produced is relevant and accessible. Joint initiatives can be launched to create and distribute settlement-related information through multicultural media.

Establishing feedback mechanisms where immigrants can share their media preferences and information needs can help in tailoring content more effectively. This can be done through surveys, focus groups, and community consultations.

Additional ways this research can be used:

• Policy Development: Use the findings to develop policies that support the availability and accessibility of multicultural media to aid immigrant settlement. Policymakers can use the findings to ensure that multicultural media are readily available and accessible to all immigrant communities. This includes supporting local multicultural media outlets and ensuring they have the resources to produce content that meets the diverse needs of immigrants. Given the preference for digital media among the studied communities, policies should encourage the development and dissemination of digital content tailored to immigrants. This could involve funding digital literacy programs to help immigrants better access and use digital media.
• Service Provision: Tailor services to address the diverse information needs of different EICs, considering their media consumption preferences. Service providers can use multicultural media to disseminate critical settlement-related information, such as housing, employment, and language training services. By leveraging the preferred media channels of different communities, service providers can ensure that information reaches the intended audience effectively. Services should be designed to reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of the immigrant population. This includes producing content in multiple languages and addressing culturally specific needs and concerns.
• Community Support: Enhance community support mechanisms by leveraging multicultural media to disseminate important information and resources to immigrants. Multicultural media can be used to strengthen community networks by providing platforms for community engagement and support. This can help immigrants build social connections and access community resources more easily. Media can play a role in encouraging civic participation among immigrants by providing information on local events, political processes, and opportunities for community involvement.
• Future Research: Build on this study to further explore the role of multicultural media in different contexts and among other immigrant communities. The study highlights the need for ongoing research to understand the evolving media consumption patterns of immigrant communities. This can help in continuously adapting policies and services to better meet the needs of immigrants.

The final publication is available at link.springer.com.

What is this research about?

This research explores the role of technology in addressing the social and cultural needs of newcomer youth in Ontario, Canada. It examines how newcomer youth, aged 17-24, and settlement service staff perceive and use technology in the settlement process.

What do you need to know?

The research highlights the importance of direct engagement and physical presence in the settlement services for newcomer youth. It identifies a gap in the use of technology for delivering settlement services, where both youth and service providers see technology as supplementary rather than central to the settlement process. The study also points out the limited resources and capacity of mainstream and settlement-specific services to meet the needs of newcomer youth.

• The role of technology in newcomer youth's lives.
• The barriers and opportunities that technology presents for settlement services.
• The current state of settlement services for newcomer youth.
• The preferences and needs of newcomer youth regarding settlement services.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers conducted a mixed-methodological study that included:

• Literature review on technology, settlement, and newcomer youth.
• Individual interviews with six participants: three newcomer youth and three settlement service providers.
• Analysis of statistical data and grey literature on settlement services and technology use.

What did the researchers find?

1. Limited Role of Technology in Settlement Services:
   • Both youth and service providers prefer face-to-face interactions over online services. Newcomer youth prefer direct engagement with services and resources rather than relying solely on technology.
   • Technology is mainly used for communication with friends and family back home, not for accessing settlement services.
2. Importance of Direct Engagement:
   • Youth and staff emphasize the need for physical presence and direct engagement in settlement activities.
   • Face-to-face interactions help youth build trust and understand services better.
3. Challenges and Barriers:
   • Settlement services are underfunded and inconsistent across different locations.
   • Socio-economic disparities impact access to technology, leading to a digital divide.
   • There is a digital divide, with socio-economic factors impacting access to technology for newcomer youth.
4. Educational Barriers:
   • Newcomer youth face challenges in the education system, with guidance counselors and teachers often not meeting their needs effectively.
   • Youth need more personalized support to navigate educational and settlement challenges.
5. Service Gaps and Needs:
   • There is a lack of coordinated and youth-specific settlement services.
   • There is a lack of resources and capacity in both mainstream and settlement-specific services to meet the needs of newcomer youth.
   • Newcomer youth need services that are responsive to their unique cultural and linguistic needs.

How can you use this research if you work in the sector this report is about?

By understanding these findings and applying them, service providers can better support the social and cultural integration of newcomer youth, ensuring they receive the resources and assistance they need to thrive in their new environment.

1. Enhance Face-to-Face Services:
   • Prioritize in-person interactions and support for newcomer youth to build trust and ensure effective communication.
2. Address Educational Needs:
   • Provide targeted support for newcomer youth in schools, including language programs and guidance tailored to their specific needs.
3. Improve Service Coordination:
   • Develop coordinated and integrated settlement services that address the diverse needs of newcomer youth. By understanding these findings and applying them, service providers can better support the social and cultural integration of newcomer youth, ensuring they receive the resources and assistance they need to thrive in their new environment.
4. Leverage Technology Strategically:
   • Use technology to supplement, not replace, face-to-face services.
   • Create online resources that support communication with family and friends, which can help maintain cultural connections.
5. Advocate for Funding and Policy Changes:
   • Push for consistent funding and policies that recognize and address the unique needs of newcomer youth.

What is this research about?

This research is about the use of advanced digital technologies (ADTs) in migration management. It explores how these technologies are being implemented and employed by state and non-state actors to manage migration processes, the types of technologies being used, their purposes, and the implications for migrants' rights, particularly privacy.

What do you need to know?

ADTs encompass a range of technologies including the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, big data, blockchain, automation, and biometric technologies. These technologies are increasingly integrated into migration management systems to enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and manage data. However, their deployment raises significant concerns regarding privacy, security, and the potential for increased surveillance and control over migrants.

• Types of Technologies: It focuses on six categories of ADTs: Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, big data technologies, blockchain, automation, and biometric technologies.
• Purpose of Technologies: The technologies are primarily used for migration control (border surveillance, port-of-entry processing) and migration support.
• Migrants Impacted: The literature focuses on refugees/asylum seekers and illegalized migrants, with fewer studies on regular migrants.

What did the researchers do?

The study spans literature from 2010 to 2022 and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of ADTs in migration management, identifying trends, methodologies, and the impact on different migrant groups. The researchers conducted a structured review of both academic and grey literature on ADTs in migration management. The study examines various research methodologies used in the literature, including descriptive studies, case studies, qualitative and ethnographic methods, legal or policy-related document examinations, and experiments. They analyzed over 40 articles published between 2010 and 2022, using a snowball sampling approach to identify relevant sources.

What did the researchers find?

The findings reveal that ADTs are primarily used for two main purposes: migration control and migration support. Under migration control, technologies are often used for surveillance and managing border security, frequently framing migration as a security risk. For migration support, technologies aim to enhance the provision of services to migrants, such as through faster processing and better resource allocation. However, the literature predominantly discusses the negative impacts of these technologies, highlighting issues such as the potential for increased surveillance and the erosion of privacy. The review also notes a significant focus on certain migrant groups, particularly refugees and asylum seekers, while other migrant categories are less discussed.

• Research Trends: There is a dominance of descriptive research and case studies, with a significant focus on the United States and Europe. There is a lack of deep technical analysis of ADTs and limited experimental research.
• Technological Applications: IoT, AI, and biometric technologies are the most commonly discussed ADTs. There is minimal literature on cloud computing and blockchain in this context.
• Migration Control vs. Support: Most literature discusses the use of ADTs for migration control, often framing migration as a risk. Technologies for migration support are less discussed, although there are instances of ADTs being used to aid refugees and asylum seekers.
• Impact on Migrants: The focus is predominantly on refugees/asylum seekers and illegalized migrants, with little research on specific categories of regular migrants. The authors use "the terms illegalized migrant and illegalized migration to focus attention on the political and institutional processes, including the uses of ADTs, that render people illegal."

How can you use this research?

If you are a practitioner or policymaker in the field of migration management, this research can serve as a critical resource for understanding the landscape of ADTs in your field. It provides insights into how various technologies are being used, the implications for migrant rights, and the ethical considerations that must be addressed. The research can guide the development of policies that balance technological advancements with the protection of fundamental human rights. Additionally, it can help in advocating for transparent and responsible use of ADTs, ensuring that they support rather than undermine the rights and dignity of migrants.

This research is essential for anyone involved in migration management who is considering the implementation or evaluation of ADTs. It highlights the need for a careful and informed approach to integrating technology into migration practices, ensuring that it enhances rather than compromises the welfare and rights of migrants.

Specific ways you can use the research:

• Policy Development: Use insights from the research to inform policies that balance the efficiency of ADTs in migration management with the protection of migrant rights and privacy.
• Technology Implementation: Consider the ethical implications and ensure transparency and accountability when implementing ADTs.
• Future Research: Identify gaps in the current literature to guide future research, particularly in the areas of cloud computing, blockchain, and the impact of ADTs on regular migrants.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Foster collaboration between information scientists, engineers, social scientists, and policy experts to develop a deeper understanding of ADTs and their implications.
• Empirical Studies: Conduct empirical qualitative and ethnographic research to understand the real-world impacts of ADTs on various migrant groups and the effectiveness of these technologies in different contexts.

This report highlights the language limitations of most digital humanitarian services, leaving millions of crisis-affected individuals excluded. It demonstrates the demand to make services available in the language that people need. Researchers propose a collective approach to language technology development. Researchers analyzed the barriers to inclusion in digital humanitarian services and identified best practices and potential solutions.

Like similar reports such as Chatbots in humanitarian contexts - Learning from practitioner experiences (2023) this report focuses on "humanitarian services" which I believe includes the Immigrant and Refugee-serving sector in Canada. The findings and recommendations are equally useful and practical for our sector.

What is this research about?

The research focuses on the challenges and opportunities of integrating language technology into digital humanitarian services. It addresses the state of inclusion and exclusion for marginalized language speakers within digital humanitarian platforms, emphasizing the need for more inclusive digital services that cater to the diverse linguistic needs of global populations affected by crises.

What do you need to know?

Key points to understand from this research include:

• The digital marginalization of languages, where only a few hundred out of thousands of human languages are supported on digital platforms. Most of the world’s languages are underrepresented online, leading to digital exclusion for many marginalized language speakers. Humanitarian services often do not account for linguistic diversity, resulting in significant barriers for marginalized groups.
• The types of language technologies being implemented, such as machine translation, speech-to-text systems, and multilingual data platforms. There is a lack of language technology for many languages spoken in crisis-affected regions.
• The challenges faced in deploying these technologies in humanitarian settings, which often involve diverse languages and dialects not commonly supported by commercial technology.
• The importance of cultural sensitivity and accuracy in translation and communication tools. The intersectional risks of digital language exclusion, affecting various marginalized groups including women, older adults, and people with disabilities.
• The study utilizes case studies and data from various sources to illustrate the extent of language marginalization in digital humanitarian responses.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers conducted a detailed desk review, online surveys, and key informant interviews with civil society organizations, digital service providers, and language technology experts. The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis involving:

• Reviewing existing literature on digital humanitarian responses and language support.
• Collecting data through surveys and interviews with civil society organizations (CSOs) and digital service providers.
• Examining case studies such as Mobile Vaani and Talk to Loop to explore practical implementations of inclusive digital humanitarian services.

What did the researchers find?

The findings highlight several critical issues:

• Language technology can drastically improve the speed and accuracy of communication between aid workers and affected populations, leading to more effective distribution of aid and resources.
• Significant gaps in digital content availability across the majority of the world's languages, leading to exclusion in digital humanitarian services. Many digital humanitarian services are only available in a few dominant languages, excluding millions of crisis-affected people. There is a lack of comprehensive data on the languages spoken by marginalized communities, which hampers effective service delivery.
• Challenges faced by marginalized language speakers in accessing digital services, often resulting in their reliance on second or third languages, which can compromise the effectiveness of humanitarian aid.
• Examples of inclusive digital platforms that successfully integrate multiple languages and user-friendly interfaces to enhance accessibility and engagement. Some initiatives, like Gram Vaani “The voice of the village” and Talk to Loop , have successfully used language technology to include marginalized language speakers.
• The high cost of developing and maintaining multilingual services and the limited availability of language technology for non-dominant languages are significant challenges.
• There are ethical challenges related to informed consent and data protection, especially for marginalized communities. Implementing these technologies can sometimes face logistical and ethical challenges, including data privacy concerns and the need for context-specific adaptations.

How can you use this research in your work?

• Adoption of Technology: Integrating advanced language technologies into your communication strategies can enhance interaction with diverse communities, ensuring that aid reaches those in need effectively and respectfully.
• Training and Development: Building capacity among humanitarian workers to use these technologies can leverage their potential and address the linguistic challenges inherent in global humanitarian efforts. Ensure needs assessments are conducted in the languages of the target populations to accurately capture their requirements.
• Collaborate and Share Data: Work with other organizations to share language data and collaborate on developing language technology solutions.
• Invest in Language Technology: Invest in the development and implementation of language technology that meets the needs of marginalized language communities.
• Adopt Inclusive Practices: Implement inclusive communication practices, such as using plain language, providing multilingual support, and leveraging local languages.
• Ensure Informed Consent: Develop clear and culturally appropriate consent processes to ensure users understand how their data will be used.
• Policy Making: Influencing policy to support the development and dissemination of language technologies that cater to underrepresented languages and dialects can bridge significant gaps in current humanitarian practices.

Read the research brief:

Read the full report:

The Langley Local Immigrant Partnership Research project: Access to Settlement and Other Service Information took place from November 2021 to March 2022 and explored these two questions: What hinders new immigrants from accessing information about settlement and other services? How to improve immigrant access to information?

The report presents key findings and recommendations on improving access to information for newcomers in Langley, British Columbia. The report provides recommendations such as developing a centralized digital information hub, establishing physical information hubs or welcome centers, supporting newcomers as information ambassadors, and enhancing language services and professional development for service providers.

Themes and Findings

Information Needs of Newcomers

• Upon arrival, newcomers primarily need information related to banking, housing, education, health services (finding a family doctor, clinics), employment, transportation, and accessing community services like libraries and recreation programs.
• Being connected to schools for their children, settlement services, including Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) where families with children can receive information and services, and language classes for adults were seen as priorities.
• Connecting with faith organizations is also important for many newcomers.

Challenges in Accessing Information

• Newcomers face difficulties finding information particularly about settlement and language services, as well as health-related information.
• There is a lack of ability to provide first-language settlement services for the diversity of newcomer groups.

Sources of Information

• Newcomers heavily rely on relatives, friends, the internet, settlement agencies, libraries, faith communities, and information boards for accessing information.
• Those with private sponsorship tend to have better access to information and support compared to government-assisted refugees.

Gaps and Opportunities

• There is a need for better coordination and information-sharing among service providers and community organizations serving newcomers.
• Multiple access points, both physical and digital, are required to meet the diverse needs of newcomers. Engaging newcomers themselves as information providers by leveraging their networks and community connections can be beneficial.
• Building capacity in language services and maintaining high standards of service delivery are crucial.

Recommendations

The report provides the following five recommendations to improve access to information about settlement and other services in Langley. Each recommendation in the report includes current strengths to build on, possibly tools and approaches to be used, related promising practices, and where the recommendation aligns with existing LIP strategic priorities and goals:

1. Improve information flow between service providers and other associations:

• Create a centralized system or platform for service providers to share information and make referrals to other organizations serving newcomers.
• Facilitate better coordination and communication between settlement agencies, community organizations, and other service providers.

2. Develop a digital hub for newcomer information and service providers:

• Create a website or app that serves as a centralized online source for information on settlement services, community resources, and organizations serving newcomers.
• Include searchable categories, translation features, and the ability for newcomers to ask questions.
• Most settlement and community service providers in Langley as well as the City and the Township of Langley have informative websites that provide information about their services and programs. The building of a digital hub of settlement information should create a network between these websites, as well as include a wide range of websites offering information vital to newcomers, such as information about health, childcare, and legal issues. A digital hub could also connect to information sources that exist beyond Langley’s geography, including BC211, NewToBC, WelcomeBC and the IRCC settlement service database.

3. Build an in-person hub (or multiple hubs) for newcomers:

• Establish physical welcome centers or hubs where newcomers can access services, information, and support in person.
• Leverage existing locations like libraries, schools (SWIS program), and community centers as potential hubs.

4. Engage and support newcomers as information-providers:

• Harness the knowledge and networks of newcomers themselves to distribute information within their communities.
• Create volunteer opportunities for newcomers to serve as "information ambassadors" or spokespersons.

5. Build capacity in languages and standard of service:

• Increase funding for translation/interpretation services to provide information in newcomers' first languages.
• There is no one standard training or specific qualification requirement for settlement workers. Settlement and community providers would benefit with more professional development opportunities to ensure that information provided to newcomers is consistent, a professional standard of service is provided, and effective referrals can be made.

Offer professional development and training opportunities for settlement workers to maintain consistent, high-quality service standards. The recommendations aim to address gaps in information access, leverage existing strengths and resources, and involve newcomers as active participants in the information dissemination process.

Online Scan of Promising Practices

A scan of Promising Practices in Information Sharing and Dissemination was also undertaken as the initial stage of this research. The scan focused on the following areas of practice within the settlement sector across Canada: one-stop shop for information and referrals; word of mouth; services in partnership with cities, libraries, and schools; services in partnership with professional bodies, collaboration within the sector, and the use of multimedia.

Abstract

"Drawing on interviews with 204 participants in two studies of privately sponsored refugee resettlement in Ontario, Canada, we explore the resettlement effects of pre-arrival contact on the interactional dynamics between private sponsors and privately sponsored Syrian refugees. Those who had regular pre-arrival contact via digital applications such as Facebook, Skype, and Whatsapp reported more positive, “successful” resettlement experiences than those who had not. This pre-arrival interactive dynamic has theoretical/conceptual implications beyond an understanding of the benefits of “information exchange.” Pre-arrival sponsor-sponsored interaction is not bound by the contexts of displacement or resettlement, but constitutes a “third space” of reception, co-created through trusted contact. We develop the concept of “resettlement knowledge assets” and report on how these assets emerge through pre-arrival trust building, modify the resettlement expectations of both sponsors and sponsored, and reduce resettlement uncertainty."

This report explores key themes around the resettlement experiences of privately sponsored Syrian refugees in Ontario. It particularly focuses on the impact of online pre-arrival contact via digital communication platforms like Facebook, Skype, and WhatsApp between refugees and their private sponsors.

Key Themes:

1. Third Space of Reception: The concept of a "third space" of reception signifies a virtual, co-created space where sponsors and refugees interact prior to physical arrival. This space transcends traditional physical and social boundaries associated with displacement and resettlement.
2. Resettlement Knowledge Assets: The report introduces the idea of "resettlement knowledge assets," which are developed through trusted pre-arrival interactions. These assets significantly alter resettlement expectations and reduce uncertainty for both sponsors and refugees: "Information in and of itself cannot be thought of as an asset to inclusive resettlement. But, as our studies also show, resettlement information can be transformed into resettlement knowledge assets in the pre-arrival sponsor-sponsored relation of trusted contact."

Key Findings:

1. Impact of Pre-arrival Contact: Refugees who engaged in regular pre-arrival digital communications with their sponsors reported more positive and "successful" resettlement experiences compared to those who did not have such contact.
2. Modification of Expectations and Reduction of Uncertainty: The establishment of trust through pre-arrival contact helps in modifying the resettlement expectations and reduces uncertainty, facilitating smoother integration and adaptation upon arrival.
3. Creation of Community-like Solidarities: The relationships forged in the digital third space often lead to the formation of "community-like" solidarities between sponsors and refugees, which help in building a supportive and inclusive resettlement environment.

"Pre-arrival trusted contact was co-created in the digital third space of refugee reception, not limited to the temporal and spatial boundaries of displacement or resettlement. In the building of resettlement knowledge assets, neither party is rendered dependent on the other; rather, their respective needs merge to form “community-like” solidarities forged through the reduction of resettlement uncertainty. Unknowable future outcomes are made more knowable."

These themes and findings underscore the importance of trusted, pre-arrival communication in enhancing the resettlement process, suggesting that such practices could be considered more systematically in refugee sponsorship programs globally.

You can also watch Dr. Christopher Kyriakides in this 2017 webinar recording - The Dynamic of Trust in Refugee-Host Relations (unfortunately I'm unable to embed the video here) - where he discusses "how the dynamic of refugee-host relations affects and is affected by the Canadian Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program. He outlines what he calls 'the existential transactions of worth,' focusing on the pre and post arrival exchange of 'resettlement knowledge assets,' why they are central to the establishment of trust between sponsor groups and refugees, and the importance of 'trust formation' in determining 'resettlement success,' particularly after 'month 13'."

Article from Refuge: Canada’s Journal on Refugees Vol. 35 No. 2 (2019): Refugee Sponsorship: Lessons Learned, Ways Forward