LAIERA350 - Special Project: Experiential Learning in International Education - Resident Assistant

International Education

Semester Credits: 3

Contact Hours: 150

Prerequisites: RA application, cover letter, CV, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.

Description: 3 semester credits. This special project course coordinated by the Student Life and Development Office offers students an opportunity to expand their knowledge of the study abroad experience from the perspective of the hosting country and specifically student life and services. The FUA-AUF Pre-College program is designed to mirror the FUA-AUF undergraduate experience for students who are generally 16 to 18 years of age. Pre-college students choose from a variety of college-level courses and have numerous opportunities to engage in the community, explore campus life, and learn from a diverse group of peers in an independent but structured environment. Students are supervised by the SLD staff and Resident Assistants. Students enrolled in this special project placement will learn first-hand how Resident Assistants are an integral part of the Summer pre-college program, as they ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants as well as the success of program activities. Moreover, students will experience how RA responsibilities highlight the important role of residential life at FUA-AUF. The RA has extensive contact with pre-college students and serves as a liaison and resource; special project students will promote the integration of all aspects of campus life and assist with cultivating a positive environment that supports the University’s educational objectives. Students will assist with planning, organizing and promoting activities, observe and assist with program-related administrative and clerical duties, and respond appropriately to program troubleshooting and student issues through assessment, referral to experienced professionals, and appropriate follow-up. The overall duration covers three 3-week sessions: In the first session, students will undergo training supervised by the SLD staff and gain exposure to the activities and procedures that will be implemented during the second session when the pre-college program is active. EL hours may be distributed from Monday through Friday. This placement also requires PM and weekend shifts. This special project course features experiential learning hours with our Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI). CEMI are dynamic learning environments created to foster learning through a structured interaction with the community. Students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as to develop a strong likelihood for success in life. The experiential learning hours are fully supervised by instructors who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. This unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management. Training will take place during Session II for three weeks followed by three weeks of full time RA duties during Session III. Additional materials/Dress code: Casual attire. Main tasks: Program planning and organization, coordination and supervision of activities, provide logistical support to program admin staff, student counseling and troubleshooting, final portfolio. Prerequisites: RA application, cover letter, CV, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.