What type of pre-trip and pre-placement orientation is provided for service-learning program volunteers?
Upon final acceptance into a GSC international volunteer program, participants receive an orientation manual with information on the country and program, a reading list, packing list and other health and travel tips. A five to seven day on site orientation in Bangkok, Singburi and at host wats is also provided by GSC’s program coordinators. The orientation includes an overnight stay in a Buddhist Wat, Thai language lessons, Thai cultural discussions, training on teaching English as Foreign Language, a trip to the local morning market to buy ingredients for a Thai cooking class, and a tour of local village areas.
Upon final acceptance into a GSC international volunteer program, participants receive a participant handbook with information on the country and program, a reading list, packing list and other health and travel tips. A short Bangkok tour followed by one week of orientation and training is given for BI-EFL participants at the host wat. For Orphanage Care and Teach English Abroad participants, the Bangkok tour is followed by one week of orientation and one week of EFL training in Singburi. The orientation for participants at the Greenway site includes an overnight stay in a Buddhist Wat, Thai language lessons, Thai cultural discussions, training on teaching English as Foreign Language, a trip to the local morning market to buy ingredients for a Thai cooking class, and a tour of local village areas.
