Best Practices , Collaboration , education abroad , Faculty-led , getting started , Logistics , Partners , Providers , short-term , study abroad
Faculty-led education abroad programs continue to grow in number and popularity across US institutions. Short-term programs are now 63% of all study abroad, according to the latest IIE Open Doors data. As well, the number and types of organizations offering to partner with you continue to increase. Below is a checklist Seminars has developed that can help you choose a provider who matches your needs and will provide high quality support and services.
Choose an international education organization that has:
- Financial stability;
- Excellent references;
- Expertise in working with education abroad and faculty-led programs;
- An understanding of faculty’s academic and intercultural goals;
- The ability to work in partnership with education abroad offices;
- Sensitivity to university policies and procedures;
- Experienced staff with group travel experience and first-hand destination knowledge;
- The capability to be one source for all travel and logistics arrangements: air, accommodations, ground transportation, guides, site entrances, etc.;
- The capability to be one source for all deposits and payments;
- Expertise and “Pull” with on-site partners, airlines, and accommodation providers in the destinations to which you are traveling;
- The ability to negotiate the best rates available, yet will not offer services below your expectations and standards;
- A proven safety track record; a developed and tested emergency action plan; coordination to work together with university emergency procedures;
- A good relationship with on-site partners, airlines, and accommodation providers in cases of emergency;
- Accessibility and 24/7 resources (website, e-mail, 800 number, 24-hour emergency access);
- Flexibility and creativity;
- Belief and pride in the educational experience you are providing.