Access Abroad Accommodations and Faculty-Led Programs

AHEAD ConferenceJuly 2015

Heidi Soneson, Ph.D., Learning Abroad CenterLindsey Lahr, MA, Learning Abroad Center

Barbara Blacklock, MA, LISW, Disability Resource Center

Agenda• Overview of Study Abroad Programs• Unique Aspects of Faculty-Led Programs• Early Disclosure• Overview of Process for Obtaining Reasonable

Accommodation• Case Studies• Faculty Leader Accommodation Considerations• Application on Your Campus• Questions and Feedback

Study Abroad Options

• Short-term faculty-led• Center-based (study, internships)• Integrated study/exchange• Volunteer• Affiliated programs

Unique Aspects of Faculty-Led Programs

• Leader is more than professor- wears many “hats” but has on-site support

• Group dynamics and interaction are paramount to program success

• Short-term programs- experience is intensified - full semester in 1 to 3 weeks

Early Disclosure• Barriers to disclosure• Encouraging disclosure

– Assume students/faculty are reluctant to disclose

– Review written materials– Provide successful examples– Highlight proactive planning to ensure

access– Enhance confidence of faculty

Process for Obtaining Reasonable Accommodations

• Accommodations Request Form• Assessing essential program components• Explore overseas access/local support• Dialogue on needs vs. on-site realities• Document support and on-site contacts• Maintain open communication abroad

Case Studies• Program Model: Instructor-led Freshman

Seminar Abroad programs– Deaf Student– Emotional Support Animal

• Stakeholders• Central Goal: Making sure student would have

reasonable accommodations in order to participate fully in the program and course

Case Studies

• Challenges

• Timeline

• Benefit

• Key Lessons

Faculty Leader Accommodation Considerations

• Faculty leader as instructor vs. on-site leader• Identifying/defining on-site support • Clarify essential program components

(academics, excursions, events)• Determining accommodation needs• Determining financial implications (if any)• Assessing disclosure to student participants

Application on Your Campus

• Establish clear advising protocols• Clarify roles: faculty and other offices • Consider group dynamics• Identify on-site support structures• Review options for funding reasonable

accommodations

Questions and Feedback

Questions?

Insights/Thoughts?