New life abroadPosting an employee to a new appointment abroad, is a major investment for the company and involves changes in the lives of the employee and his / her family. The posting also involves a risk as the individual's performance level will be a function of academic excellence, the employee's ability to gain entry into new surroundings and how well the employee's family thrive. Problems with one of these variables will result in reduced productivity and shortened stays with the resulting consequences.
As the challenges faced by the families are often complex and based on several aspects, it is optimal that the preparations include the whole family. Our seminars present the relevant issues in an integrated system, using experienced lecturers who are experts in their fields.
Each seminar is adapted to the circumstances of the individual participant's situation, both in terms of the lectures that are included and in terms of content, which is adapted to family situation and the culture that will meet the participants.
If nothing else is specified, the courses are held in the Oslo area.
Course descriptionCORE PACKAGE Expectations for the Period Abroad (Njål Andersen)
Introduction to the seminar and a survey of expectations.
Intercultural Communication (Charles Cooper)
Introduction to culture, focusing on common sources of misunderstanding and suggested methods that can be used to understand the counter-party. Stategies for successful communication are explained.
Information about the Destination Country
For each destination we arrange a session with a Norwegian person or family who has recently returned from the city or country. They tell about their experience and give good, practical advice both for the initial period and in general for the expat term. This session provides an opportunity to get answers to specific questions.
How History Shaped Us (Harald Frode Skram)
The lecture provides an introduction to the Norwegian forms of understanding and thought processes. This induces self-reflection and is "the beginning of a long process." The lecture provides a good basis for understanding the Norwegian culture and thus why we automatically react as we do in foreign cultures.
International Etiquette (Njål Andersen)
This is a practical presentation of how Norwegians are perceived abroad, and simple measures that can be taken to facilitate the integration into local culture.
Ethics - Practical Help in a Different Life (Jorgen Hanson)
It is important to have clear ethical and moral values when you move abroad. Norwegians should be aware that the "moral right" is culture-dependent.
Good Advice for the Ex-pat Period and Preparation for Return (Njål Andersen)
A review of available resources and possible preparation. Measures are suggested to facilitate the return to Norway and to ensure that the reverse culture shock will be as easy as possible.
Health Challenges for Travel to Exotic Countries (David Bergsaker)
Information about the necessary preparations for travel to high-risk climates. The lecturer also provides good advice for how one should act to prevent infection and how best to tackle a disease if it occurs.
ADDITIONAL PARTS FOR LONG TERM STAY
Life as an Ex-pat (Lars-Erik Espeland)
A presentation of the common reactions to the posting and the importance of nurturing social networks, family relationships and health. The importance of a care network in Norway is discussed.
ADDITIONAL PARTS FOR COUPLES AND FAMILIES
School for Children and Teenagers Abroad (Margret Andersen)
Topics covered include preparation for the new school system and the environment abroad, information about the planning of children's further education, and how to keep children up to date with special Norwegian subjects while abroad. Time is also set aside for individual discussions about each child's situation.
Opportunities for Spouse or Partner Abroad (Bjørg Juriks)
This lecture provides a review of the companion's role in the posting, opportunities for networking and social integration in the local environment, and opportunities for further education.
Parents are also given an opportunity to meet the educational leader of the Global Academy, where participants receive information and a demonstration of the methodology and courses.
Course description: - Children and Teenagers
Expectations for the Ex-pat Period Abroad
Talk about what children think and know about their new life outside Norway.
International and National Schools Abroad
Talk about the differences between Norwegian schools and schools in the destination countries, both from the social and the academic points of view. Leisure activities are also covered.
Norwegian Culture and History
As Norwegians, we are ambassadors for Norway when abroad. What do we know about our country? After completing the seminar the children will have their own individual presentations of Norway and Norwegians.
Information about the Destination Country
Information about the destination country, focusing on what children find interesting and relevant but ensuring that basic geography, culture and religion are covered. The destination country is also put into perspective in relation to Norway.
The Third Culture Kid experience
What effect will a posting to have on children? What joy do young people get from growing up with knowledge of more than one culture?
Contact with Norway and preparation for return
Talk about the importance of keeping in touch with friends back home, both when you are abroad and when you are home on vacation. We also discuss how to write letters that will be well received back home in Norway. |
