Learning
Abroad Information for Gannon Faculty Members
In
addition to believing in the importance of providing students with the
opportunity to engage in educational activities around the world, Gannon
University also believes in the importance of continued development of faculty
and staff through their own travels abroad.
Gannon's
faculty members integrate course material and international experiences into
GIFT (Gannon: Inspired Faculty-led Travel) Courses, which meet academic
requirements, whether in the Liberal Studies Core or within specific majors.
GIFT Courses typically travel over spring break or in May after the end of
spring semester, though travel during the December-January break is also an
option, if the academic calendar, course, and destination allow.
Faculty
are encouraged to consider adding an international or intercultural component
to one of their existing courses, or to pursue the creation of a new course
offering. Faculty are also encouraged to work with colleagues in other
departments in the creation of interdisciplinary courses and travel
opportunities. Faculty members interested in creating a GIFT Course are
encouraged to make an appointment with Meagan Gania, Director of Learning
Abroad and International Academic Programs, to discuss their ideas, and then to
complete and submit a Learning Abroad Program Proposal, which will be reviewed
by the Office of Learning Abroad and International Academic Programs and the
respective Dean's Office.
The
University has developed Policies and Procedures that will be implemented
across the university to cover a myriad of details regarding university-related
travel with students. Faculty members are strongly encouraged to read through
these Policies and Procedures before planning or proposing any travel.
Faculty can access
both the Learning Abroad Program Proposal and the University Policies and
Procedures on the Learning Abroad page on the portal, where they'll also find
helpful tools for advising students interested in studying abroad.