“I was impressed with the ability of Global Exchange to plug us into a variety of social movements and organizations. As an educator at a state university, I use the experience every term in a number of my courses. I am still amazed at the depth of the experience and how profoundly it has impacted my life and those who shared in the tour.”
Below are answers that could solve your doubts about Reality Tours, otherwise you can always contact us directly to help you.
Education doesn’t have to be confined to the classroom. Reality Tours offer a unique opportunity to gain insights by engaging with actors on the ground. Students witness firsthand the social, political, and environmental issues they read about in school. Our groups stay in locally-owned lodgings, employ local program officers and guides, and always support the local host economies.
Global Exchange can bridge the gap between classroom theory and real world experience through carefully tailored trips.
Yes, we can accommodate groups of most sizes. The minimum number of participants for a custom tour is generally about 6.
Travel can be a valuable learning opportunity for students of all ages. Customized Reality Tours can be organized for minors with adult chaperones. In order to ensure a safe experience for your group, we strongly recommend at least a 10:1 student to adult ratio.
Global Exchange and the teacher or professor will work together to create an itinerary that incorporates your class’s interests. We will take care of all bookings, transportation, entrance fees and daily meals (depending on your preference), and provide your group with a bilingual guide. The teacher or professor is responsible for monitoring the group and confronting any interpersonal or behavioral tensions. They are also welcome to facilitate discussions and provide supplemental readings and classes as they see fit.
Yes, in addition to offering a range of existing itineraries, you are free to work with us to design a customized delegation that examines the subject matter covered in your course work and relevant sites.
While Global Exchange Reality Tours are not accredited, K-12 and Community College teachers can earn graduate level credits towards professional growth credits for travel on a Reality Tour by registering for an independent course. We recommend the Dominican University of California (DU) Continuing Education Program, from which you will be eligible to earn Professional Growth credits by completing all of the trip requirements and documenting your experience.
To enroll for university credits:
In the past, Global Exchange participants have received winter term credits, service learning credits, and other academic credits for participating. Please inquire with your university’s academic advisor to determine the specific requirements.
No. The goal of these short delegations is not to solve issues abroad, but rather to build international solidarity and understanding that could lead to impactful action down the road. Reality Tours allow you to witness the challenges of communities abroad and learn from the strategies they employ.
Some custom delegations, however, can participate in direct service-based-learning upon request.
Due to limited funds, only some financial aid is available each year through Global Exchange. Funding and scholarships may be available from your own school. In the past, teachers have done grassroots fundraising with online campaigns, payment plans with their students, fundraising projects in their community, and have applied for grants or funding from foundations or local governments.
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