Immigration integration: a greater role for the internet

Unrestricted Although the conversation about immigration has been dominated by enforcement and legalization topics, its focus is slowly shifting to how to help new comers integrate. Scholars and community organizations are emphasizing the need for more English as a Second Language classes, job training, and K-12 education among other avenues of immigrant integration.; But the Internet has hardly been mentioned as a tool of incorporation, even though much can be accomplished through this medium by designing more programs aimed at incorporating immigrants.; The World Wide Web and recent technological innovations that make it possible to distribute and provide content cheaply offer a unique opportunity to reach out to this underserved group. But for newly arrived immigrants, particularly those who do not speak English as their first language, it is important to develop appropriate content that would serve as a cultural bridge between their sending and adopting communities.