Ready, Set, Go and Done

183011468612464

Views: 301

All Rights Reserved

Copyright © 2014, Common Ground Research Networks, All Rights Reserved

Abstract

Recently a group of Australian undergraduate IT students travelled to China as part of a course studying ethical dilemmas, security challenges, and privacy concerns brought about through the use of information technology in society. From the lessons learned in preparing and running this study abroad experience, the authors have prepared a practical guide for others who may be planning short term international study tours of their own. The guide covers the three important stages of any successful short-term overseas study experience: pre-departure planning, on tour activities, and post-trip winding up. The preparation of the guide is the result of the collaboration between the Australian and Chinese academics involved in an undergraduate study experience. The guide describes each stage from the two different perspectives; one perspective is that of the visitors travelling on the study tour, and the other is the view from staff of the host institution. Thus, the guide provides Gantt charts to indicate the timings involved for visitors and hosts respectively. The paper concludes with final comments and observations of the process from both Australian and Chinese participants.