As schools across Canada welcomed students for a new academic year, UBC Faculty of Education (FoE) Associate Professor Dr. Anusha Kassan talks to Johanna Mills about research-based insights on how educators, parents, and classmates can create inclusive environments where newcomer students thrive.
In a recent UBC News feature, Dr. Kassan (ECPS) highlights the complex transitions faced by newcomer students (defined as international students, immigrants, or refugees who have lived in Canada for five years or less). These students often navigate new education systems, languages, and cultural norms while balancing evolving family roles.
Dr. Kassan emphasizes that inclusion begins with small, intentional actions: inviting new peers into conversations, encouraging curiosity, and fostering empathy. Teachers and parents play key roles by modeling inclusive behaviours and supporting communication across languages and cultures. Schools can also benefit from cultural brokers who help families engage more confidently with the education system.
Beyond helping newcomers, Dr. Kassan underscores that diversity strengthens learning for everyone. Classrooms that reflect the broader world promote intercultural competence and prepare all students for success in higher education, workplaces, and global communities.
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Dr. Anusha Kassan, Myrne B. Nevison Professorship in School or Counselling Psychology, is an Associate Professor in the School and Applied Child Psychology Program within our Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education (ECPS). Her research has two main foci: (a) the immigration experiences of newcomer youth in Canada; and (b) decolonizing teaching and learning in psychology programs. Dr. Kassan has a strong record of grant funding, publishing and presenting to scholar, practitioner, and community audiences. She has received numerous awards, recognizing her contributions to research, teaching, graduate student mentoring, and service, which speaks to the impact her work is having across university, school, and community sectors.