The Impact of Culture Shock on ELLs

Abstract

This capstone project aims to support teachers, administrators, school counselors and school psychologists who work with English Language Learners (ELLs). Although the ELL population continues to grow, staff members are not always informed on how to support ELLs. ELLs experience culture shock when entering a new country and new school setting. ELLs have emotional, social, and academic reactions to culture shock and thus, staff members must be knowledgeable on culture shock and the effects it has on ELLs. Solutions to mitigate the effects of culture shock include implementing Social Emotional Learning (SEL), supporting goal setting, building social-just education, building inclusion by respecting diverse cultures, and modifying tasks for ELLs, and implementing culturally responsive teaching. Recommendations include creating a safe space for ELLs, valuing ELLs’ native cultures and languages, using multicultural materials in the classroom, and encouraging ELLs to appreciate their differences. The professional development plan, Culture Shock Career Development, provides assistance and creates opportunities for teachers, administrators, school counselors and school psychologists to provide assistance and create opportunities for them to add additional suggestions to reduce the effects of culture shock.