RMC Study-Travel Instructor Handbook

Course/Country Specific Orientation by Instructors

The OIE strongly urges study/travel course instructors to conduct at least one course-specific pre-departure orientation PRIOR to departure.

Make sure to go over course requirements and behavioral expectations.

  • Reinforce with students that study/travel courses are not vacation trips, but are academic experiences where expectations of classroom behavior apply.
  • Ensure that the class syllabus outlines behavioral expectations for both on- and off-campus components and clearly states the consequences of violating those expectations. The syllabus should include a clear alcohol policy. Contact OIE for advice and assistance with crafting policies, as necessary, or refer to sample off-campus policies here: https://gormc.sharepoint.com/oie/SitePages/Study_Travel_Courses.aspx
  • Provide visa and vaccination information to students in a timely manner and assist with securing the appropriate visas, as needed.

The orientation could also include, but should not be limited to the following topics:

  1. Passports & I.D. for Travel
  2. Visa and other entry requirements (if required)
  3. Packing Recommendations
  4. Money Matters
  5. Communications
  6. Emailing
  7. Calling
  8. Contingency Plans
  9. Health and Safety
  10. Laws and Customs
  11. Vaccinations
  12. Mandatory Insurance Policy
  13. Barriers to Cross-Cultural Communication
  14. Reading Assignments for Cultural Clues and Safety Tips
  15. Reminders: