Around the World in January 2010

I am going on a study abroad program through the University of Delaware in January 2010.

The focus of the trip is on Disabilities Studies, and we are visiting Ghana, Nepal, Dubai, Thailand, and Hawaii.

"How is the experience of disability influenced by the culture in which one lives? What factors influence the services and supports available to people with disabilities in other countries? Join us for an around-the-world comparative and interdisciplinary study of how disability affects the way people live, learn, work, and play.

This trip will take us to Ghana, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, and Thailand -- countries that represent the poorest to wealthiest in the world as well as a variety of religious, governance, rural/urban, and other demographics. In each country, we will learn from and visit people with disabilities, their families, professional service providers, and government agencies. Also, we will visit World Heritage and other cultural sites in each location.

We will stay in dorms, guest houses, and hotels close to universities and cultural sites of interest. A daily meal budget is included in the program fee. Our last stop will be the Center for Disability Studies, University of Hawaii-Manoa in Honolulu where we will share what we have learned with their faculty and have a celebratory luau."

There are 24 students going, with 3 faculty advisors. We will be taking two courses while abroad, for a total of 6 credits towards my plan of study.

HEPP367 - Topics: Disability Identity and Culture (3 cr.)
Examines disability experiences within and across cultures from individual, family, and community perspectives. Considers major influences (e.g., economic, social, religious) on disability identity within specific cultural contexts.

HEPP467 - Topics: Disability Supports and Services Around the World (3 cr.)
Examines the types of services and supports available to people with disabilities, their families and communities in various countries. Identifies disability policies, development initiatives, and advocacy issues that affect integration of people with disabilities in their communities.

I am very excited for our departure & have been preparing for the trip this summer by getting vaccinated, talking to my doctor about various health concerns, and putting together a packing list.

Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to January!