Step #2a:
Recognize gravity problems and problems that can be worked around
There are some problems related to study abroad that you cannot change—these are called “gravity problems” (Burnett & Evans, 2016). When planning a trip, you must accept these gravity problems and forge ahead.
Examples of gravity problems related to study abroad:
- Your college doesn’t have an international office or a pedagogical counsellor in charge of international activities.
- This is the first time anyone in your department has planned study abroad, so you have no prior trips on which to base your trip.
- You have scheduling limitations (e.g., you must adhere to the academic calendar when choosing departure and return dates).
- You have a limited budget/there are only a few granting agencies that provide funding for trips such as this. In addition, some grants (such as PESLEQ) are offered only if you and your students meet specific criteria, such as certain language proficiency levels and particular travel dates.
In addition, there are some problems that may seem impossible to overcome at first but you can find a way to address them:
- You need to convince your coordinator/your department/your administration that this trip is a worthwhile endeavour.
- You need time to prepare for FSA while you are teaching full-time.
- You need to find pre-departure meeting times that fit both your schedule and your students’ schedules.
- You need to establish contact with overseas partners prior to departure yet you have not travelled to that country before.
Complete step #2 in the My trip design document.