Study Abroad Preparation Module

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• assess the contribution of different texts to your understanding of the country in which you will be living
• understand the importance of cultural differences
• reflect upon your aspirations for the period abroad

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• think critically about cultural differences
• complete a risk assessment
• plan your residence abroad

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• the benefits in personal, academic and professional terms of studying abroad
• the risk assessment process
• how to access information on the country where you will be studying

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• conduct risk assessments
• undertake shared reflection on plans
• work effectively as an individual and in a group
• study and work in intercultural settings

This module will prepare you for study abroad. You are required to take out appropriate insurance policies and engage in on-going monitoring of risk and this module will provide professional input in both areas as well as rigorous assessment of the documents which you submit. Particular attention will be paid to the quality of your experience and the module will encourage you to formulate academic, intercultural, personal and professional objectives. Living abroad can be all the more enriching if you are able to reflect upon your experiences and this module will equip you for that by helping you to think critically about yourself, where you come from and how you observe and engage with places and people.

Teaching and learning methods

The module is delivered as one double seminar session in specified weeks (see module programme) in which the tutors introduce the key concepts which you will then discuss. The discussions and debates will provide a forum for you to convey ideas effectively and share your knowledge. You will work both individually and in groups to research your destinations and ML students who have lived abroad will offer input based on the knowledge and experiences which they have acquired.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

You will be asked to identify texts (books, poems, films, songs, compositions..) which are of particular relevance to the places where you will be living. Some of those texts are listed in the relevant Rough Guide or Lonely Planet and you will be able to extend the list of texts influenced by your particular interests be they Philosophical, Literary, Archaeological....

Internet Resources

The Lonely Planet.

The Rough Guide.

The Foreign and Commonwealth office.

Textbooks

Urry, J (1990). The tourist gaze: leisure and travel in contemporary societies.

Behar, R (1996). The vulnerable observer : anthropology that breaks your heart.

Assessment strategy

 Completion of risk assessment.

 Submission of insurance details

 Attendance at programmed sessions

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External