This online learning module introduces AFS-USA volunteers to the methods and processes for supporting students and host families and correctly assessing and reporting emergency (and other crisis) situations. This training is required for all volunteers, and the content was redesigned and updated in April 2024. All volunteers will take the newly-updated AFS Basics training this year and then return to the schedule of completing an abbreviated refresher version of the training next year.
In order to satisfy AFS-USA's requirement for this training, you must complete each of the modules described below and a final quiz.
- Standards for Screening and Selecting Host Families: This online learning module introduces AFS Volunteers to the processes for screening and selecting host families in accordance with US Department of State rules and regulations.
- Assessing and Reporting Emergency Situations: This online learning module introduces AFS Volunteers to the methods and processes for correctly assessing and reporting emergency (and other crisis) situations.
- Standards for Ensuring Participant Safety and Well-being: This online learning module introduces AFS Volunteers to the standards of conduct to be upheld at all times to ensure the safety and wellbeing of AFS participants. It also introduces the rules governing sexual conduct, methods of reporting allegations of sexual abuse or misconduct, and any other situations involving abuse or neglect of AFS participants.
- Student Safety: These online learning modules (6 in total) teach AFS Volunteers about the prevalence and impact of child sexual abuse, and what AFS stakeholders can do to help prevent, identify, and stop sexual abuse.
- Conflict Resolution: This online learning module introduces AFS Volunteers to several types of conflict resolution techniques within the context of intercultural learning
This training should be completed in one of the following web browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge.
You can access the AFS Basics training directly in the Training Center here.