Development of Administrative Policies Covering Study-Abroad Courses at Glendale Community College

Glendale Community College (GCC) has experienced an expansion of study-abroad courses and is contemplating increasing the offerings still further. When the courses were few in number, little college supervision was exercised over the logistical arrangements, the courses were approved as part of the regular curriculum, and the individual instructor was left to his/her own devices in procuring the services of a travel contractor. Even though the courses went through the academic approval process, the district did not have a set of guidelines governing study-abroad courses that could cover their business and logistical aspects. In order to address such issues as liability insurance, faculty accountability for funds, and methods of student payment, a study of pertinent policy documents governing study-abroad courses in other California community colleges was conducted and key administrative personnel at GCC were interviewed for ideas and concerns regarding this area of the college's curriculum. The study found that: (1) specific policy guidelines existed both at the state and local levels; (2) no coherent set of administrative regulations existed at the college to cover study-abroad courses; and (3) no contractual arrangements existed at GCC for the provision of logistical services to study-abroad courses. The study report includes a set of proposed administrative guidelines and a proposed travel services contract. (Author/EJV)