Global Certificate Course in Behavioral Economics for Refugee Resettlement Workers
Published on June 27, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, where we explore innovative courses and their impact on various industries. I'm thrilled to have Dr. Jane Smith with us today, an expert in behavioral economics and the instructor of the new Global Certificate Course in Behavioral Economics for Refugee Resettlement Workers. Welcome, Jane! GUEST: Thanks for having me! I'm excited to be here. HOST: To start, could you share a bit about your personal experiences and insights that led you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely. With over a decade of working with refugees, I noticed that traditional methods often overlooked the psychological and economic factors that influence successful resettlement. By applying behavioral economics, we can create more effective strategies to support refugees. HOST: That's fascinating. How does behavioral economics address those challenges? GUEST: Well, behavioral economics combines insights from psychology, economics, and neuroscience to explain how people make decisions. By understanding the biases and heuristics that affect decision-making, we can design interventions that nudge refugees toward positive outcomes. HOST: Could you give us an example of how this might work in practice? GUEST: Sure. For instance, we could use commitment devices, like savings plans, to help refugees save money for future goals. This not only promotes financial stability but also empowers them to make better decisions for their families. HOST: That's a powerful tool. Are there any current industry trends that are relevant to this course? GUEST: Indeed. There's growing interest in using evidence-based approaches to address complex social issues, and behavioral economics is at the forefront of this movement. Additionally, the increasing number of displaced persons worldwide highlights the urgent need for more effective resettlement strategies. HOST: You're right. Now, what are some of the challenges faced when teaching or learning this subject matter? GUEST: One challenge is breaking down complex concepts into digestible, actionable steps. However, we've designed the course to be highly interactive, using real-world examples and practical exercises to engage learners. HOST: Lastly, where do you see the future of behavioral economics in refugee resettlement? GUEST: I believe behavioral economics will become an essential component of refugee resettlement programs, as it offers a scientifically grounded, yet practical, approach to addressing the challenges faced by refugees. By equipping resettlement workers with these tools, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all. HOST: Dr. Jane Smith, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights about the Global Certificate Course in Behavioral Economics for Refugee Resettlement Workers. We're excited to see the positive impact this course will have on the industry. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure.
