The following describes considerations for faculty members contemplating short-term learning abroad programs, those that “embed” a period of travel within an academic course at Rutgers-Camden.
Learning abroad programs naturally follow the academic and professional interests of faculty members creating educational experiences that can be enhanced through direct experience of a foreign culture.
Effective starting in 2013-14, the chancellor’s office has created a program of Course Development Grants in support of substantially new Learning Abroad Programs. Applications accompany the formal course proposal.
Before submitting a formal proposal, prospective program leaders can consult with Learning Abroad staff about travel logistics, including feasibility and costs. Members of the Learning Abroad Academic Advisory Committee are available to discuss course planning, academic credit, and learning outcomes for Rutgers-Camden Learning Abroad courses.
Effective 2015-16, the Chancellor’s Office will fund the travel expenses of one faculty member. Additional faculty participants will need to secure funding from other sources.
The overall course structure normally includes classroom meetings in preparation for the travel experience as well as opportunities for follow-up and reflection.
Prospective faculty leaders should be aware that courses that are narrow in focus or highly technical may fail to draw sufficient enrollment, which often depends on the participation of non-majors. Programs involving distance learning may enable students from Newark and New Brunswick to enroll.
The presence of non-majors in learning abroad programs may require instructors to present material and make assignments with a diverse group of students in mind.
Generally, the deans will support course-load reduction for faculty members leading learning abroad programs, but course release must be obtained from the department chair or administrative unit leader as well.