JPSE v2 - Issues in Non-English Pesticide Applicator Training Programs

Abstract

Journal of Pesticide Safety Education, 2000, Volume 2, Pages 15-26

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Issues in Non-English Pesticide Applicator Training Programs

Myron Shenk , Pesticide Applicator Training Coordinator, Integrated Plant Protection Center of Oregon State University, 2040 Cordley Hall, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-2915. shenkm@bcc.orst.edu

Training pesticide applicators in non-English languages is more difficult than typical English-language training programs because of issues related to: 1) cultural context, 2) language, 3) communications, 4) resources, 5) perceived needs by industry and the public, and 6) socio-political factors. Cultural issues such as American attitudes held by trainers, and belief systems and practices, view of authority and community, and teacher-learner conventions held by "foreigners," can significantly interfere with effective training. Problems of word choice, non-verbal communication, gender issues, resource limitations, perceived training needs, and socio-political issues are also discussed.

Keywords: pesticide safety education training non-English languages communication