Virtual Reality (VR) technology is revolutionizing the way we approach learning, particularly in the context of resettlement processes for refugees. By providing an immersive experience, VR allows individuals to engage with their new environment in a safe and controlled setting. This method offers a much more effective tool for conveying essential information about navigating life in a new country.
Milad Mozari, Multi-Disciplinary Design Assistant Professor, has been a key navigator in these efforts partnering with projects like Switchboard to develop tools that support the resettlement process. Switchboard is a project of the International Rescue Committee. Switcboard’s mission is to offer extensive support and guidance to professionals and organizations engaged in refugee resettlement by providing the necessary tools to ensure effective and sustainable integration of newcomers into their new communities. Switchboard is operated by the International Rescue Committee (IRC), an organization that provides support for more than 50 countries 28 U.S. cities, including Salt Lake City, to help people affected by humanitarian crises to survive, recover and rebuild their lives.
Confluence: Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Resettlement was a recent national event hosted by Mozari and IRC at University of Utah, where researchers, resettlement agencies and tech companies were invited to present at the 3 day event on how they may collaborate with one on another. This was to showcase the project led by Mozari, which was started before the pandemic as a series of workshops between the Multidisciplinary Design Program and the local Education Team at the International Rescue Committee. Over the years, the project has integrated into Mozari’s research studio, and now, has adopted as part of the core trainings at IRC’s Resettlement, Asylum and Integration. Since starting in Salt Lake City, he has traveled and co-created VR videos with communities in Missoula (MT), Sacramento (CA), Dallas (TX), and Seattle (WA).
Mozari shares, “In its 6th year of development and first national year, the project has expanded into multiple cities. The most exciting part is how the resettlement tool actualizes differently in each city in the context of what the community needs.”
One of the significant advantages of using VR is its ability to create low-stakes learning environments. Refugees often face anxiety related to language barriers and cultural differences; VR can mitigate these feelings by allowing users to practice real-world scenarios without the pressure of immediate consequences. For instance, they can learn how to interact with local services, understand public transportation systems, or even practice job interviews—all within a virtual space that encourages exploration and learning.
Switchboard’s Senior Program Officer of Instructional Design, Rosalie Arndt, shares insight on the impact these technology advancements make on the traditionally harsh resettlement experience. “We don’t have the human power of one-on-one capacity to guide folks through that experience in a one-on-one level of care that the situation demands… Because we have an unprecedented level of displacement globally. And now, especially with the advent of large language models, recent developments, VR developments and emerging technology. Those two things combined, we have the ability to support families in a more intentional manner.”
As users navigate through various simulations, they gain practical knowledge that empowers them to adapt more effectively in real-life situations. Overall, VR stands out as an innovative solution that supports refugees during their resettlement journey by fostering understanding and promoting self-assurance in an unfamiliar landscape. Click here for more details on the International Rescue Committee efforts and contact Milad Mozari to learn how you can support.
Photos provided by Jonathan Nellermoe