Topic: EMPLOYMENT (ICMC/Zagreb)

Activity: Changing Jobs (Knowledge about Jobs/Decision-Making)

Introduction

In this activity, refugees will explore changing jobs based on income and benefits.

Objective

Given limited background information about a new job, participants will weigh the "pros" and "cons" of taking the new job, then make a decision regarding the job and their reasons for taking or not taking the job offered.

Materials

• Situation cards 1-2-3-4.

Procedure

1. Pass out one situation card to each of four groups of students. Each group answers the question posed at the end of the situation. Remind the groups to think about the consequences of taking or not taking the new job

2. Ask groups to report on their situation and decision and to provide reasons for their decision.

Debrief

If there was any conflict during the group work, how was it resolved? Discuss how they reached consensus within their groups.

Situation Cards: Changing Jobs

Changing Jobs: Situation 1

You are a computer programmer by profession with a wife and 2 children. Right now you are working as a driver, making $10/hour. It is a full-time job but offers no health coverage.

You are offered a job as an assistant programmer. You will make $7.50/hour and have health coverage for you and your family. The job offers the possibility of promotion.

Should you take the assistant programmer job? Why? Why not?

Changing Jobs: Situation 2

You are a mechanic by profession but are presently unemployed. You still have some money to live on that you brought with you from Germany.

You are offered a job in a fast food restaurant making $5.15/hour.

Should you take the restaurant job? Why? Why not?

Changing Jobs: Situation 3

You work as a dishwasher at the California Pizza Kitchen. One day someone calls you offering a job; the person says it will be a well-paying job. On the 5th of every month, you will receive $1,500 in cash.

To get the job, all you need to do is send an application fee of $56.

Should you send an application? Why? Why not?

Changing Jobs: Situation 4

You are a nurse working in a hospital three blocks from your apartment. You are married with 3 children. Your husband is an electrician but is unemployed.

He has been offered a job in another state. You could also work as a nurse there. Your children have made a lot of friends in your community. Your paycheck is not enough to support you without public assistance.

Should you and your husband move for new jobs? Why? Why not?

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