Reflections of our Learning Journey
After completing a series of workshops like Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Pic Collage at Cochrane Recreation Centre (CRC), we chat with four of our JRS volunteers who have offered their time and talents to ensure that our migrant brothers had some hands-on experience using computer programmes and photo apps.
Mary spearheads our Migrant Outreach and has been instrumental in curating the workshops for the ‘Learning Journey’ programme. Jocelyn is a retired (but far from tired!) teacher who is constantly thinking of innovative ideas for hands-on learning opportunities. Lucas, an IT-savvy young man who has facilitated two workshops, has a knack for connecting with our migrant brothers. Andros is our technical expert who has saved the day on several occasions when we suffered from equipment failure.
Why did the team decide to conduct digital workshops?
Mary
It is my belief that IT skills such as Microsoft Word and Excel are very useful, even for simple administrative work. Many of the migrant brothers who come to CRC have limited IT knowledge and some have had no experience handling a computer. We wanted to give an opportunity to those who aspire to improve their IT skills and enhance their employability in the job market. Basic IT knowledge could also serve them well when they return home, especially if they would like to start their own business. Continuous education and skill advancement is extremely important for everyone. I like to think that the workshops we offer make IT skills more accessible and fuel their desire to learn more.”
Jocelyn
I was excited to run a session on Pic Collage. Why Pic Collage? It’s a free app that is easily accessible on their handphones. Migrant workers love taking photos and probably have big collections. Pic Collage helps organize collections of photos by providing tools for making collages. There are also free card templates. Alternatively, users can design their own cards, and get creative by using features like stickers, animation, cut-outs, interesting fonts.
What has your experience been so far?
Lucas
Prior to this IT training workshop, my first-hand experience working with migrants was during the Covid circuit breaker period when I worked at their dormitories. The circuit breaker was a tough period for all of us, and even tougher for the migrant workers who were stuck in their dormitories. I noticed that many were struggling with their lockdown routine. They were required to head straight back to their dorm every day after getting swabbed. They were sorely lacking human interaction and missing their loved ones back home. Now that the Covid restrictions have been lifted, it is great that there is an opportunity for interaction. The sessions were fruitful and I am glad that I had this experience to guide them on basic computer skills, especially those who were so happy and eager for self-improvement.
Mary
During our sessions with the migrant brothers, we found that most are eager to learn and are very polite, helpful and respectful. As an instructor I found my ‘job’ much easier when we had fellow JRS volunteers facilitating. They could offer more attention to assist individuals who found it difficult to keep up. Now that we have completed the first phase of our workshops and are in the process of reviewing our activities in the new financial year, we hope to expand the training to include English language and Financial Planning, among others.
Andros
Most of them show enthusiasm and are eager to explore and acquire IT knowledge. Some of them are already very savvy with some of the Apps in their cell phone. So, Word & Excel workshops are useful for them. One of them told me he is helping in admin work using Excel and was really keen to learn more.
Jocelyn
I wish we had more time to do more hands-on applications. Next time I would like to teach them how to use free video apps, so they can make their own little videos. I am also thinking how we can use pic collage as platform to teach English — so that our migrant brothers can increase their vocabulary and practise their writing skills.
Any significant moments which have stood out for you?
Lucas
Some primary school children donated gift bags which they had put together. These contained practical items such as toothbrush, soap and toothpaste as well as handwritten cards. When we gave them out, these brought a smile on our migrant brothers’ faces and that really warmed my heart. I hope that more people can support the migrant community and equip them with better skills. Just a couple of hours a month can really make their day and show them our sense of appreciation and gratitude for their contributions to our country!
Jocelyn
It was lovely to see the migrant workers having fun making their collages and cards to send to their families and friends!
Andros
For me what I remember most was the fact that I was hot and sweaty during the sessions. But I still support these workshops because I find them meaningful.
As we wrap up our pilot series of workshops with the migrant brothers, we are grateful for all the volunteers who supported the Learning Journey, especially the instructors and facilitators. The team is taking some time to reflect, review and roll out another series of workshops from June. Come and join us! Share your talents so we can initiate more engaging workshops.