International Service Learning Course (ISLC)
FIE’s Service Learning program pathway is based on three key elements:
Preparation
As in any cross-cultural experience, this is crucial. Preparation happens in two stages: orientation to the general environment, and specific exposure to the issues of working and living in the culture. These stages are covered by a general orientation to life in London upon arrival and one of four intensive Key Courses about an aspect of British life, which is undertaken before students enter their placement.
International Service Learning Course (ISLC)
The ISLC is comprised of:
- Placement with a host organization that is working toward social goals and can support the learning objectives inherent in service learning.
- Classroom-based seminars that allow students the opportunity to build on their workplace experience through reflection, discussion and analysis. Seminars address topics such as dealing with expectations, the realities of service learning, global citizenship, social responsibility and intercultural sensitivity.
Social Welfare in the UK
This co-requisite course provides students the appropriate historical and conceptual framework within which social welfare provision has developed in the UK. In addition, comparative perspectives on U.S. and U.K. practice will be developed. Contrasting notions of “philanthropy” will be analyzed. The contrast between Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal in the 1930’s and the Welfare State in post-war Britain will serve to exemplify historical similarities and distinctions between the two national approaches. This course is intended to explore current issues in social welfare provision in the non-profit, non-governmental sector.