Call for Faculty-led Study Abroad Proposals

Taking the lead in developing the learning abroad program, including conceptualizing its structure, defining learning objectives, and planning educational and socio-cultural activities. Designing the curriculum for the program, ensuring its academic relevance and alignment with the goals of the study abroad experience.

Connecting with York University's institutional and community partners in the location abroad if needed. Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with these partners to co-create the program collaboratively.

Providing guidance and support to students before, during, and after their time abroad. Assisting them in preparing for the experience, addressing any concerns, and promoting their personal and academic growth. Supporting students' academic progress during the program, including organizing lectures, seminars, and other academic activities. Promoting cultural sensitivity and awareness among students and participants, encouraging them to respect and embrace the host country's culture and customs.

Work closely with York International in overseeing the coordination of logistical aspects of the program, such as travel arrangements, accommodation, and local transportation, to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all participants.

Prioritizing the health and safety of all students and participants. Collaborating with the Safety Abroad Manager to conduct risk assessments, establish safety protocols, and address any health-related issues that may arise during the program. Developing a comprehensive crisis management plan and being prepared to handle emergencies or unforeseen situations effectively while abroad.

Work closely with York International in promoting the study abroad courses to attract potential participants. Actively engaging in the recruitment process and ensuring diversity and inclusivity among the students involved.

YI will connect you with York University's institutional and community partners in the location abroad and facilitate the co-creation of the program including planning of educational and socio-cultural activities.

Plan and determine program fees which include in-country costs as student accommodations, program activities (ex. field and study trips, museums, and cultural tours), local transportation and contingencies. YI organizes a financial account for your program, maintain your program budget, make advance payments to vendors and consolidates and report after the program. Faculty can request for a travel advance, as needed.

YI helps facilitate and determine if agreements/contracts are needed for your program, and assist you in the process.

To recruit and register students to join the class. These include a dedicated webpage for the course, social media campaigns, posters and graphic materials, information sessions, classroom visits, and promotion to York global partners and other Canadian institutions as desired.

YI hosts an application system, answer student queries, receives program fees, pre-screen all applications, issue acceptance notifications in coordination with faculty lead.

To research, confirm and book all on-site (in-country) logistical arrangements, including but not limited to accommodations, field/study trips, and local transportation. It also includes establishing housing contracts applicable and providing housing guidelines for students.

YI will enact measures to keep the safety and well-being of staff, faculty, and students participating in summer abroad programs. The Safety Abroad Manager within York International provides travel risk and safety abroad supports including pre-departure training, registration in the travel registry (emergency contact and waivers), insurance and monitoring safety developments in summer abroad destination countries.

YI facilitates access to various funding and awards such as the York International Mobility Award (YIMA) and the Global Skills Opportunity (GSO) Funds. See details here.

YI will finalize and close the budget, collate invoices and reconcile expense claim for the program. YI will also gather feedback from students (program content, delivery and logistical arrangements) as well as feedback from local partner(s) if applicable.

1. What are the specific safety and security measures in place at the program destination, and how familiar are you with them?
2. Are you aware of the locations of major hospitals and medical facilities in the area? How do you plan to access medical assistance in case of emergencies?
3. Have you researched and familiarized yourself with the local laws, customs, and cultural norms to ensure a respectful and safe experience for all students?
4. How do you plan to communicate safety guidelines and protocols to the students before and during the program?
5. What contingency plans do you have in case of unexpected events, such as natural disasters or civil unrest, that may affect the program?
6. Are you comfortable handling medical or mental health emergencies that may arise among the students during the program?
7. How will you ensure that students are aware of emergency contact information and procedures while abroad?
8. Have you considered the safety implications of any planned excursions or activities? How will you assess and mitigate potential risks?
9. Are there any specific health or safety concerns related to the program destination that students should be aware of, such as vaccinations or health advisories?
10. How will you promote a culture of safety and responsibility among the students throughout the duration of the program?
11. Do you have a plan in place to support students who may face challenges related to anxiety, culture shock, or homesickness while abroad?
12. How will you collaborate with local partners and institutions to address any safety concerns and ensure a safe learning environment?
13. Have you reviewed and discussed the Safety Abroad & Risk Management policies established by the York University with the students?
14. What measures will you take to stay informed about any developments or changes in safety conditions at the program destination?
15. How will you ensure that students understand and comply with safety guidelines, both in the classroom and during leisure time?
16. Have you considered the safety of student accommodations and transportation arrangements during the program?
17. How will you handle situations where students may engage in risky behaviour or disregard safety guidelines?
18. How will you support students with disabilities to ensure their safety and full participation in the program?
19. Are you aware of the local transportation system, and how will you ensure safe and reliable transportation for the group?
20. Have you developed a communication plan to stay in touch with university staff and local contacts throughout the program to address any safety-related concerns promptly?