Workshop Title: Emergency English for Non-Native Speakers: Vocabulary Building for Safety and Wellness
In this interactive workshop, participants will explore strategies for teaching emergency-related vocabulary and safety scenarios to non-native English speakers in both high school and higher education settings. Focusing on improved safety for students who will study abroad in the U.S., and using specific terminology from real-world alerts and national systems like the National Weather Service, we’ll discuss building learners’ understanding of physical safety, emotional wellness, and institutional emergency protocols. Attendees will engage with adaptable classroom materials and planning tools that promote linguistic access and emotional support during crises. By the end of the session, educators will leave with practical, ready-to-use resources, apps, and a deeper awareness of the language barriers faced by international and multilingual students during emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.
Corrine T. Spencer
SUNY Korea, Teaching Assistant Professor, English Language Program
SUNY University at Albany, PhD student, Educational Policy & Leadership
Former Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member with the Broome County, NY Office of Emergency Management; licensed Ham Radio Technician; and Advanced Skywarn volunteer with the National Weather Service.
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Presenter: Hyun-hwa Choi
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