things to consider

To help you get started and to ensure the relevancy of your course, faculty leaders should consider the following questions when developing an FLP Proposal.

Rationale

  • What is the rationale for the course?
  • Is the course location attractive to and meeting the needs of students?
  • How will the course strengthen SFAI’s internationalization efforts?

Prospective Students

  • What students will be eligible to participate in your course?
  • Are there any prerequisites?
  • Can freshman and first year students participate?
  • Is there identifiable interest in this course? If not, how can you create the demand for interest?
  • Are you able to recruit the minimum number of students (8) needed for the course?
  • What is the maximum number of students that can participate in this course?

Location

  • What is the location and why?
  • Does SFAI currently offer a study abroad opportunity to your country? If so, what sets this course apart?
  • Will the group stay in one location or multiple locations?
  • Where will the course learning take place?
  • Is studio space required?
  • Will students need visas or special travel permits to enter the country? If so, what is the cost and processing time?
  • Will students be expected to travel together on a group flight?
  • What type of housing facilities will be used? Home stays, Residence halls, Hotels?
  • Do you or does SFAI have any connections with institutions in the host country that may be able to offer free or discounted accommodations?
  • What arrangements will be made for meals?
  • Will program-related travel be included? (Field trips, excursions, professional visits, etc.)
  • Are there any parts of your course that may have limited access for students with disabilities?
  • Are there any health or safety considerations that need to be made?
  • What are your plans for an on-site orientation program?

Academic Components

  • What academic requirements will your course fulfill?
  • What type of pre-departure meetings or readings will be required?
  • What type of instructional delivery methods will be used?  Ex. Guest lecturers, site visits
  • Is there an opportunity for students to engage in a service-learning component?
  • How will learning outcomes be assessed?

Other Support Services

  • Will you require a professional staff person/TA on the course or is sufficient in-country support available?
  • Will tour guides or drivers be needed in-country?
  • Will a translator be needed?
  • Are there any travel warnings for your course destination?  If so, courses must be approved by the Dean of Students.
  • What information do you have regarding known risks or dangers such as road conditions, areas of disease, and political instability?
  • What vaccinations do students need before departure? (Check with the Center for Disease Control)
  • What medical facilities are available to the group?
  • What are your contingency plans to deal with sick/injured faculty and students?