School of Arts, Languages and Cultures

Residence Abroad Handbook

2014-15 THIS IS THE KEY REFERENCE DOCUMENT FOR YOUR PERIOD OF RESIDENCE ABROAD. MAKE SURE IT’S ALWAYS TO HAND! Failure to fulfil the School’s residence abroad requirements will lead to the withholding of some or all of the credits for the period of residence abroad. Where up to 20 credits have been withheld, at the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee's discretion, students may be permitted to make up these credits in the course of the final year of study. Where all credits have been withheld, this will lead to students being put on track for an unclassified (ordinary) degree.

Emergency Contacts Please remember that in almost all emergency situations local advice will be the most relevant / valuable to you. First Assist: Tel. +44 (0)20 8763 3155 Fax: +44 (0)20 8763 3035 E-mail: [email protected]. The University also operates a 24 hour emergency helpline on +44 (0) 161 275 2728

Emergency contacts within the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures: Shàdy Nowrouz Residence Abroad Coordinator Tel. (direct line and voicemail): +44 (0)161 275 8123

Dr Wiebke Brockhaus-Grand Chair of the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee OR

Tel. (direct line and voicemail): + 44 (0)161 275 3180

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +44 (0)7973 709 099 Fax (shared): +44 (0)161 275 3031 School of Arts, Languages and Cultures University of Manchester Samuel Alexander S3.7 Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL

Email: [email protected] Fax (shared): + 44 (0)161 275 3031

See Appendix 2 for a full directory of key contacts within the School of ALC including Residence Abroad Tutors and UG Programme Administrators. For contacts in the wider University, including the International Programmes Office and Student Services Centre, see the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-2015.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this handbook is accurate at the time of going to press (January 2014), but the School of ALC cannot take responsibility for any errors or omissions. Views, where expressed, are those of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the University. Please send comments or suggestions to [email protected].

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INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 5 Residence Abroad: Why? ............................................................................................................................................ 5

SECTION ONE: BEFORE YOU GO .................................................................................... 6 Responsibilities of the School and Responsibilities of the Student .......................................................... 6 Resources, Briefings and Support ................................................................................................................ 7 1. Compulsory Residence Abroad Briefing meetings ............................................................................. 7 2. The School’s Residence Abroad Blackboard Site, noticeboards and book collection ................... 8 3. Direct support from staff ........................................................................................................................ 8 Period of Residence Abroad .......................................................................................................................... 8 Flexibility for Joint Honours Students ........................................................................................................ 10 Health, Safety, Special Circumstances & Exemption ................................................................................ 11 Special Circumstances ................................................................................................................................. 11 Health .............................................................................................................................................................. 12 Exemption ...................................................................................................................................................... 12 The Options for Residence Abroad ............................................................................................................. 14 Study ............................................................................................................................................................... 14 Study in the Summer Vacation Period ........................................................................................................ 14 Study for a Single Semester or Academic Year ......................................................................................... 14 Securing a Place at a Partner University..................................................................................................... 16 Applying to Your Host University ................................................................................................................ 17 Work ................................................................................................................................................................ 17 Work as an English Language Assistant (ELA) ......................................................................................... 17 Other Approved Employment ....................................................................................................................... 17 Dissertation research .................................................................................................................................... 18 Funding and Fees .......................................................................................................................................... 18 Planning Your Period of Residence Abroad ......................................................................................................... 18

SECTION TWO: DURING YOUR TIME ABROAD ............................................................ 20 Responsibilities of the School and Responsibilities of the Student ........................................................ 20 Changes to Arrangements, Special Circumstances & Exemption ........................................................... 20 Requirements and Collecting Evidence ...................................................................................................... 21 General Requirements: ................................................................................................................................. 21 Studying Abroad: the School’s requirements and how to collect evidence ........................................... 21 What to do if staff and / or students at the host university decide to go on strike ................................ 23 Working Abroad: the School’s requirements and how to collect evidence ............................................ 24 Students spending 8 weeks abroad ............................................................................................................ 25 Course Unit Selection for your Final Year .................................................................................................. 26

SECTION THREE: RETURNING TO MANCHESTER ...................................................... 27 Submitting Evidence ..................................................................................................................................... 27 Providing Feedback....................................................................................................................................... 27

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APPENDIX 1: RESIDENCE ABROAD REGULATIONS 2014-15 ..................................... 28 1.

Regulations............................................................................................................................................ 28

2.

Funding .................................................................................................................................................. 35

3.

Residence Abroad in China ................................................................................................................. 36

4.

Residence Abroad in a French-speaking country ............................................................................. 36

5.

Residence Abroad in a German-speaking country ........................................................................... 37

6.

Residence Abroad in an Italian-speaking country ............................................................................ 38

7.

Residence Abroad in Japan ................................................................................................................. 39

8.

Residence Abroad in Arabic-, Hebrew-, Persian- and Turkish-speaking countries ...................... 40

9.

Residence Abroad in a Russian-speaking country ........................................................................... 41

10.

Residence Abroad in a Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking country ................................................ 42

11.

Staff visits .............................................................................................................................................. 43

APPENDIX 2: CONTACT LIST ......................................................................................... 44 APPENDIX 3: RESIDENCE ABROAD CHECKLISTS ..................................................... 46 APPENDIX 4: EU WORK COMPARISON TABLE FOR LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ........ 51 APPENDIX 5: EXTRACT FROM 2003 WORKING TIME DIRECTIVE ............................. 52 APPENDIX 6: CASE STUDIES ......................................................................................... 53 APPENDIX 7: FURTHER READING ................................................................................. 54 APPENDIX 8: SAMPLE YELLOW FORM......................................................................... 56 APPENDIX 9: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ....................................................... 60 APPENDIX 10: SELF ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST / HEALTH NEEDS ASSESSMENT . 61

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Introduction This handbook is your guide to residence abroad during the 2014-15 academic year. It is intended to outline the options that are open to you, enable you to make the most of your time abroad and help you to get to grips with the School’s requirements. It is absolutely essential that in addition to this handbook you also read and understand: 

the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures Regulations for Residence Abroad 2014-15, which are contained in Appendix 1 of this handbook



the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15, which provides an overview of study and work abroad

and that you visit the following websites for supplementary information: 

the School’s Residence Abroad Blackboard site



the University’s International Programmes Office website www.studyabroad.manchester.ac.uk/

Residence Abroad: Why? The period of residence abroad is intended to enable you, through focused learning and sustained exposure to a native speaker environment, to improve your communicative language skills. It should also develop your understanding of the historical and cultural background of your host country. A period of residence abroad is looked upon extremely positively by most employers as it shows that candidates are:   

not afraid of challenges adaptable able to build relationships with people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds

On a personal level, it is a great way to make new friends, become more independent and build confidence. In terms of your degree programme, satisfactory completion of a 32-week period of residence abroad (or equivalent) carries 120 credits. WARNING: Failure to fulfil the School’s residence abroad requirements will lead to the withholding of some or all of the credits for the period of residence abroad. Where up to 20 credits have been withheld, at the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee's discretion, students may be permitted to make up these credits in the course of the final year of study. Where all credits have been withheld, this will lead to students being put on track for an unclassified (ordinary) degree.

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SECTION ONE: Before you go

Responsibilities of the School and Responsibilities of the Student Responsibilities of the School: Within the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures (ALC), the School’s Residence Abroad Coordinator and the subject discipline Residence Abroad Tutors will do all they can to help you to plan for your period of residence abroad. The School of ALC will:    

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outline the options for the period of residence abroad arrange meetings to provide further detail and give students the opportunity to ask questions arrange opportunities for second year students to meet with final year students who have been abroad, and provide email addresses of students currently abroad who have agreed to be contacted by fellow Manchester students support you in completing applications for study abroad, the British Council English Language Assistantship scheme or work placements by providing advice and guidance and where necessary, writing references, on condition that students meet set deadlines act swiftly to help resolve problems in arranging the period of residence abroad provide resources such as handbooks, Blackboard sites and web pages pass on tips specific to a particular city, region and/or activity from previous Manchester students

Responsibilities of the student: It is your responsibility to:    

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attend relevant compulsory briefing meetings arranged by the School or International Programmes Office regularly check your University email account and respond to emails promptly maintain communication with the Residence Abroad Coordinator and Residence Abroad Tutor(s) keep the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures informed of your plans for residence abroad by submitting a Declaration of Intent form by 31 January (the week before ‘Reading Week’ in October for Japanese; not applicable to Russian and Middle Eastern Studies) inform the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures of your final, confirmed plans for residence abroad (including plans in respect of both languages in appropriate cases) by 30 April ensure you are in possession of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and / or arrange suitable medical insurance in good time prior to departure. For further information on insurance see Chapter 9 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15 meet all relevant deadlines

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            

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read and understand this handbook (including the School’s Residence Abroad Regulations and all other appendices) and any supplementary information circulated which is specific to your subject discipline, language and/or activity read and understand the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15 read and understand the University’s country pages on the International Programmes Office website (www.studyabroad.manchester.ac.uk/), giving advice on living, studying and working abroad read, understand and regularly consult the School’s Blackboard site for residence abroad and, in the case of Russian, the RLUS website (www.rlus.co.uk) fully research and understand the implications of each residence abroad option regularly check the residence abroad noticeboards between S3.18 and S3.22 ensure you are in possession of a valid passport ensure you have completed visa applications (where relevant) in good time make arrangements for travel and accommodation complete application forms for host universities or employers make your Residence Abroad Tutor(s) / the Residence Abroad Coordinator aware of any special circumstances that might have an impact on your period of residence abroad (disabilities, pre-existing medical conditions etc.) arrange for vaccinations (if appropriate) ensure your proposed residence abroad activities do not clash (e.g. if completing Erasmus study for French and Spanish, go to France first as the first semester in Spain finishes at the start of February, while the second semester in France starts mid January) make contact with students who have previously undertaken / are currently undertaking residence abroad in the country / city / region you will be visiting. The first-hand knowledge of those students is absolutely invaluable

Please note that the University will not discuss your personal situation, circumstances and residence abroad plans with a third party (including parents / guardians / carers) without your prior express consent. This is due to data protection regulations and the fact that discussions with a third party can, and do, lead to major misunderstandings.

Resources, Briefings and Support The School will provide support to you both prior to, and during, your period of residence abroad in the form of:

1. Compulsory Residence Abroad Briefing meetings A series of residence abroad briefing meetings will be held throughout the year to help you to make informed decisions. Attendance at any meeting relevant to you is compulsory. Please attend more than one meeting if you are not sure which option is best for you. You will also have the opportunity to meet and/or make contact with students who have just returned from their period of residence abroad. Details of residence abroad briefing meetings will be publicised via email, Blackboard and posters.

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Note that the University’s International Programmes Office will run ‘Pre-Departure’ briefing meetings for ALL students undertaking residence abroad on various topics following the Easter vacation period. The details of these meetings will be circulated via email well in advance.

2. The School’s Residence Abroad Blackboard Site, noticeboards and book collection The Residence Abroad Blackboard site provides lots of supplementary information and links to various other useful internal and external websites, including the University’s country pages on living, studying and working abroad, partner universities and potential employers. You should already have access to the Residence Abroad Blackboard site but if you don’t please email [email protected]. Additional information for certain languages / activities / countries may be distributed at briefing meetings or via email. Students of Russian must visit the RLUS website, which is regularly updated, at www.rlus.co.uk. The School’s Residence Abroad Noticeboards can be found between rooms S3.18 and S3.22 in Samuel Alexander and display lists of briefing meetings and other relevant information. The Residence Abroad Office (Samuel Alexander S3.7) houses a collection of books about working and studying abroad plus information about partner institutions and employers, all available for short-term loan from the Residence Abroad Coordinator. Further information on work and study abroad can be found at the Careers and International Programmes Libraries (both in the Atrium, First Floor University Place).

3. Direct support from staff Each subject discipline has a Residence Abroad Tutor who will provide support and answer questions via email, telephone and in person (during their office hour, by appointment and at residence abroad briefing meetings). However, all general questions should be directed to the School’s Residence Abroad Coordinator, who is available from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and has been employed specifically to help students with residence abroad queries. Full contact details for the Residence Abroad Coordinator, Residence Abroad Tutors and other members of support staff can be found at the end of this handbook (see Appendix 2). As these change from time to time, you may prefer to find the most up-to-date information on the School’s Residence Abroad Blackboard site.

Period of Residence Abroad The list below indicates the standard requirements for various degree programmes. It may, however, be possible to make slightly different arrangements, provided that the conditions set out in the paragraphs immediately following the list are met. The definitions given below do not apply to Russian, where special arrangements are in place (please

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refer to section 9 of the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures Regulations for Residence Abroad 2014-15 (Appendix 1). Note that in what follows references to ‘countries where a particular language is spoken’ should be interpreted as ‘countries where the language in question is an official language’. In countries where there is more than one official language, residence abroad must take place in an area where the target language is spoken (the only exception to this is Russian, where a broader interpretation of the phrase is intended). Wherever possible, the periods of residence abroad listed below should be continuous. Ab-initio students are required to complete a period of at least 16 weeks / one semester under approved conditions in a country where the target language is spoken.

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Single Honours in Chinese Studies, French Studies, German Studies, Italian Studies and Japanese Studies: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks Single Honours in Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American Studies: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks. However, those students who wish to continue to study Portuguese in their final year are required spend EITHER 32 weeks in a Spanish speaking country plus 8 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country OR 16 weeks in a Spanish speaking country and 16 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country Single Honours in Middle Eastern Studies and a Middle Eastern Language (Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish): the period of residence abroad is an academic year (NB. Due to the political situation in Iran, students of Persian follow a special “residence abroad at home” programme in Manchester during their third year of study) Single Honours in Middle Eastern Languages: the period of residence abroad is an academic year split equally between the two languages Joint Honours in American and Latin American Studies: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks. However, those students who wish to continue to study Portuguese in their final year are required spend EITHER 32 weeks in a Spanish speaking country plus 8 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country OR 16 weeks in a Spanish speaking country and 16 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country Joint Honours which include one European language in the title, including English Language and a Modern Language, English Literature and a Modern Language, History and a Modern Language, History of Art and a Modern Language, Linguistics and a Modern Language, Modern Language and Business & Management, Screen Studies and a Modern Language: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks Joint Honours in European Studies and Modern Languages: the period of residence abroad in a country of the major language is 32 weeks. However, under exceptional circumstances, the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee may consider applications from students to undertake a 16 week period of residence abroad in a country of their minor language alongside a 16 week period of residence abroad in a country of the language named in the degree title. Students wishing to take advantage of this option must seek the Committee’s approval well in advance of the deadline for confirmation of residence abroad plans (30 April). Joint Honours in two Modern European languages: the period of residence abroad is normally EITHER 32 weeks in the country where one of the languages studied is spoken plus eight weeks in the country where the other language studied is spoken OR 16 weeks in the country where one of the languages studied is spoken plus 16 weeks in the country where the other language studied is spoken. (See below for further details.) Joint Honours in a Modern European language and a Middle Eastern Language: the period of residence abroad is EITHER two academic semesters in the country where the Middle Eastern language is spoken plus eight weeks in the country where the Modern European language is spoken OR one academic semester in the country where the Middle Eastern language is spoken plus 16 weeks in the country where the Modern European language is spoken

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  

  

Joint Honours which include one Middle Eastern language in the title, including English Language and a Middle Eastern Language, and Linguistics and a Middle Eastern Language: the period of residence abroad is an academic year Joint Honours which include Chinese or Japanese and a non-language discipline in the title: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks Joint Honours which include Chinese or Japanese and another language in the title: the period of residence abroad is EITHER 32 weeks in Japan or China plus eight weeks in the country where the other language studied is spoken or 16 weeks in China or Japan plus 16 weeks in a country where the other language is spoken. Attention is drawn to the discipline requirements. Master of Modern Languages: Please refer to the regulations for the Master of Modern Languages programme, which are published separately Integrated Professional Master in Languages (IPML): Please refer to the IPML programme regulations, which are published separately Honours in Combined Studies: if the total value of course units in a modern foreign language amounts to 180 credits or more, the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks; otherwise, the requirement is for eight weeks’ vacation residence in a country in which the language studied is spoken

The above figures are to be understood as minima and do not include periods spent away from the country / countries where the language(s) being studied is / are spoken. Where, for reasons beyond the student’s and/or the School’s control, it is impossible to engage in an activity for the full 32 weeks (e.g. because contracts for certain types of English Language Assistantship last for only 28 weeks), it is strongly recommended that students find an additional activity abroad for the outstanding period. Please note that this does not apply to self-organised work placements, where the 32 week period is a requirement for Residence Abroad Tutor approval. Students who are required to undertake a ‘year abroad’ are urged to use vacation periods to spend, in addition, as much time as possible in countries where the target language is spoken. Students whose residence abroad activity falls only slightly short of the requisite 16 or 32 weeks may prove they were in the relevant country using flight tickets or accommodation receipts for up to 2 or 4 weeks respectively. Students in Combined Studies whose total credits in a modern foreign language do not amount to 180 credits may, with the permission of the School, interrupt their studies in Manchester and fulfil the residence abroad requirement by spending more than 8 weeks in the country/countries of their target language(s). At least 8 weeks of the time spent abroad in this way must be devoted to an activity approved in advance by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor. Please be aware that students who choose to undertake any placement(s) in addition to those confirmed via the yellow confirmation of plans form, are doing so independently, i.e. not under the auspices of the University of Manchester.

Flexibility for Joint Honours Students Joint Honours students who are required to undertake a period of residence abroad for more than one language must complete a total of at least 32 weeks abroad (with a minimum of 12 weeks in the country of one of the two languages, e.g. 12 weeks in country A and 20 weeks in country B, or 14 weeks in country A and 18 weeks in country B etc.). If

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fewer than 12 weeks are spent in one country, the requirement for the other country automatically becomes 32 weeks. Residence Abroad Requirements for Joint Honours Students Language A (post A level only) Language B (ab initio or post A level) 16 weeks 16 weeks 15 weeks 17 weeks 14 weeks 18 weeks 13 weeks 19 weeks 12 weeks 20 weeks 11 weeks 32 weeks 10 weeks 32 weeks 9 weeks 32 weeks 8 weeks 32 weeks

Ab-initio students are required to complete a period of at least 16 weeks / one semester under approved conditions in a country where the target language is spoken.

Approval of Arrangements While Residence Abroad Tutors and the Residence Abroad Coordinator will offer help and advice, it is ultimately your responsibility to ensure that the necessary arrangements are made for the period(s) you are required to spend abroad. All residence abroad plans must be approved, before the period of residence abroad begins, and you are required to submit to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 30 April, a yellow form confirming your arrangements for residence abroad. Approval for any subsequent change in arrangements will only be given in exceptional circumstances. Students are advised that their residence abroad plans constitute serious commitments, which they will be expected to honour. Students who make changes to their arrangements which have not been approved by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor(s) in advance, and/or who pursue activities considered unsuitable by the School’s Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee will be deemed to have flouted the residence abroad regulations and will be subject to the procedures set out in the Residence Abroad Regulations 2014-15 (Appendix 1, Section 1.7 of this handbook).

Health, Safety, Special Circumstances & Exemption Special Circumstances Students are expected to make their Residence Abroad Tutor or the Residence Abroad Coordinator aware of any special circumstances that could have an impact on the period(s) of residence abroad. They should do this as soon as possible, so that appropriate arrangements can be made early enough for students to benefit fully.

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Health Students are expected to make their Residence Abroad Tutor or the Residence Abroad Coordinator aware of any pre-existing medical conditions (including mental health issues) that could have an impact on the period of residence abroad. The School does not want students to undertake a period of residence abroad unless they are well enough to do so. For this reason, it is our standard procedure to refer students with pre-existing medical conditions to the University’s Student Occupational Health Service for confirmation that they are fit to travel. If a student makes a travel insurance claim for medical costs, the insurance company will request a statement from the student’s GP stating that s/he was fit to travel for the period that s/he was abroad. The University’s Student Occupational Health Service will also be able to provide such a statement but only if a student has allowed us to make a referral and the student’s health was assessed before his/her departure. If a student cannot provide this information to the insurance company, the cost of medical treatment may not be recoverable from the University’s insurance policy and the student would be liable to reimburse the university for the full amount. Furthermore, if a student permits us to disclose details of any disabilities, including specific learning disabilities, to the host organisation abroad, it may be possible for appropriate support to be put in place. For further information on the referral process, please read the information below, which can also be found here: www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/occupational-health/referrals/ You should complete the ‘Self Assessment Health & Safety Checklist’ (see Appendix 10 of this handbook) as soon as possible when you have a clear idea of your residence abroad plans and, where appropriate, refer yourself to the University’s Student Occupational Health Service. If the self-assessment does not indicate that you need to make an appointment with Student Occupational Health, you are confident of your fitness to travel and you have no pre-existing medical conditions, you are still advised to see your own doctor before going abroad for a general check-up so that your doctor can ‘record’ your fitness to travel. In the event that you become ill whilst abroad the insurance company will normally request written confirmation that you were fit to travel and it is far simpler to obtain this if you discussed this with your doctor prior to departure.”

Exemption There are normally two sets of circumstances under which students are considered for exemption from periods of residence abroad: (a) Students unlikely to benefit from further residence abroad The Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee may exempt those students from the relevant residence abroad requirements who meet both of the following conditions. Firstly, they should be able to demonstrate that they have had recent experience of living and studying or working in the country of the target language for a continuous period at least equivalent to that required by these regulations. (In this context, 'recent' is normally understood to mean not more than three years prior to the beginning of the required period

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of residence abroad.) Secondly, their level of competence in the language concerned should already be so high (at least 70% in the relevant first-year language course unit) that no, or very little, further improvement can be expected to be achieved. (b) Students affected by special circumstances Students who, for compelling medical and/or personal reasons, anticipate being unable to spend the required period(s) abroad should contact the Residence Abroad Coordinator as soon as possible to discuss their situation. Independent documentary evidence is normally required for the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee to agree to exempt a student from the usual residence abroad requirements. (If these special circumstances were in existence before the student was admitted to their degree programme, they should have been raised during the admissions process.) It should be noted that financial hardship is not normally considered a valid reason for exemption, unless this was wholly unforeseeable when the student embarked on the degree programme concerned. Students who do not fulfil the residence abroad requirements in their entirety do not benefit from the same exposure to target language and target culture as their peers. For this reason, students whose applications for excusal have been accepted are strongly advised not to proceed directly to the final year of study, but to take advantage of the opportunity to spend Year 3 in Manchester, registered as full-time students, but paying only the relevant residence abroad fee. During this period, they are then able to improve their language skills and cultural understanding by taking advantage of one or more of the following: 

   

Access to the University Language Centre with its extensive range of language learning resources (including on-line), enabling them to put to full use the independent language learning skills practised under guidance from their tutors during Years 1 and 2 Access to the University library Permission to attend regularly classes in their subject discipline(s) at Levels 1 and / or 2 (chosen in consultation with their Academic Adviser), but without participating in assessments or gaining credits Permission to take one or two Tandem courses in their language(s) of study, provided that they commit themselves to full participation, including assessment (but any credits gained will not count towards their degree programme) Access to contact details of incoming exchange students, so that they can practise their speaking skills informally

Students who, for whatever reason, do not wish to remain enrolled for Year 3 will be given permission to interrupt their studies and leave Manchester. However, in such cases the University can accept no responsibility for any shortcomings in students’ skills, competences and understanding which may become apparent when they return for their final year of study and such shortcomings will not be accepted as grounds for any appeal or complaint at a later stage. Students who opt for this course of action will be required to sign a disclaimer to the effect that they accept the element of risk involved. A third option is for students to proceed from Year 2 directly into final year, but this almost inevitably puts them at a disadvantage compared to students returning from a period of residence abroad, and the University can accept no responsibility for any shortcomings in their skills, competences and understanding which may become apparent during the final year of study. Such shortcomings will not be accepted as

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grounds for any appeal or complaint at a later stage. Students who opt for this course of action will be required to sign a disclaimer to the effect that they accept the element of risk involved.

The Options for Residence Abroad Please note that it may be possible to combine the activities listed below, for which approval is normally granted. Where proposals include activities other than those listed below, the relevant subject discipline will need to be satisfied that students will derive sufficient linguistic and cultural experience from them before approval can be given by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor. Students undertaking residence abroad are required to ensure that they are available for potential resits in late August / early September.

Study Study in the Summer Vacation Period Students who are required / choose to undertake an 8 week period of study at a university or language school should research the courses available to them using the internet. It is not normally possible for the Residence Abroad Coordinator or Residence Abroad Tutor to make a recommendation, as the quality of teaching can vary and each student has different requirements and preferences. However, the Residence Abroad Coordinator will provide students with an indication of the courses that previous students have chosen to attend, websites listing language schools and the numerous promotional leaflets which are sent to the Residence Abroad Office (available from the leaflet racks outside S3.7). When you select a course you may be forced to balance your personal language learning needs against your budget. For this reason, the School does not specify minimum requirements in terms of teaching hours, course content etc.

Study for a Single Semester or Academic Year You can undertake a 16 or 32 week (single semester or academic year) period of study with various partner institutions. The School has exchange agreements or other formal links with the institutions listed below. Those agreements marked with an asterisk (*) are under the auspices of the Erasmus Study programme (or a shadow scheme), a European Union (EU) scheme which allows students to study in other EU countries as part of their degree programme at home (for further information on Erasmus Study see the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15).

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Arabic

Chinese

French

German Hebrew Italian

Japanese

Persian Portuguese Russian

Spanish

Turkish

Egypt – Arab Academy (Cairo) – suspended in 2013-14 (decision pending for 2014-15) Jordan – Jordan Language Academy (Amman) Morocco - INLAC (Fez) Universities in Shanghai (Fudan and East China Normal), Hangzhou (Zhejiang), Nanjing, Beijing (Renmin, Tsinghua and Normal), Guangzhou (Sun Yat-Sen), Shandong, National Taiwan and Chinese University of Hong Kong Universities of Antilles et de la Guyane (to be confirmed), *Avignon et des Pays de Vaucluse, *Haute École de Bruxelles (Institut Supérieur de Traducteurs et Interprètes, *Geneva (École de traduction et d’interprétation), *Grenoble 3 (Stendhal), *Lyon 2 (Lumière), *Lyon 3 (Jean Moulin), *Lille 3 (Charles de Gaulle), *Paris 4 (Sorbonne), *Poitiers, *Rennes 2 (Haute Bretagne), *La Réunion, Sherbrooke (Quebec) and *Toulouse 2 (Le Mirail) Universities of *Basel (Switzerland), *Berlin (Humboldt), *Freiburg, *Hamburg, *Heidelberg, *Innsbruck (Austria) and *Leipzig Hebrew University of Jerusalem Universities of *Bergamo, *Bologna, *Ferrara, *Macerata, *Naples (Federico II), *Palermo, *Perugia,Pisa and *Siena (per stranieri) Universities of Chuo, Dokkyo, Fukuoka Women's University (women only), Hiroshima, Hitotsubashi, Hokkaido, Kansai, Kansai Gaidai, Keio, Kobe, Kwansei Gakuin, Kyoto, Meiji, Meiji Gakuin, Nanzan, Ochanomizu (women only), Osaka, Rikkyo, Ritsumeikan, Saitama, Tokyo, Tokyo Gaigodai, Waseda and Yamagata University of Tehran (Dehkhoda International Centre for Persian Studies) (NB. Due to the political situation in Iran, students of Persian remain in the UK and follow a special “residence abroad at home” programme in Manchester during their third year of study) Universities of *Coimbra, *Porto, *Lisbon, and São Paulo (Brazil) St Petersburg (The Benedict School, State University), Moscow (Language Link), Yaroslavl’ (State University), Tver (State University), Kazan (The Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities) and Petrozavodsk (State University) Universities of *Barcelona, *Barcelona (Autónoma), *Bilbao (Deusto), *Alcalá de Henares, *Madrid (Autónoma), *Santiago de Compostela, *Almería, *Seville, *Valladolid (Miguel de Cervantes), *La Rioja (Logroño), *Valencia, *Vigo, Buenos Aires (Universidad del Salvador), Santiago de Chile (Pontificia Católica), La Habana, Puebla (Universidad de las Américas) and Montevideo (ORT) *Istanbul Kültür University

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For further information on these institutions:     

follow the links to their websites from the School’s Residence Abroad Blackboard site read the relevant city / region tip sheets, which are available via the School’s Residence Abroad Blackboard site make contact with the Manchester students who have previously studied / are currently studying there visit the School’s Residence Abroad Office (Samuel Alexander, S3.7) and / or the International Programmes Library (The Atrium, First Floor University Place) for information packs, course unit directories etc. consult your Residence Abroad Tutor

If you are studying Chinese, Japanese, Russian or Turkish you will normally attend courses prescribed by your Residence Abroad Tutor. It may be possible to pick some additional courses, but you would need to discuss this with your tutor first. If you are on an Erasmus (other than Turkish) or Latin American exchange you have more freedom. You should note, though, that your choice of subjects to study at your host university must comply with the following guidelines. It should broadly reflect the subjects taken in Manchester, and that includes the relative weightings of content vs. language courses (so language courses can never make up more than a third of your total workload – even less if you are studying only one language). It may be further restricted to the particular subject area specified in the exchange agreement between the relevant Department (or Directorate) in Manchester and its counterpart abroad, as the study of subjects falling outside the specified subject area is entirely at the host institution’s discretion. You are therefore urged to check these details on the Residence Abroad Blackboard site before completing the Declaration of Intent form.

Securing a Place at a Partner University Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish Erasmus and other official University exchange places are allocated by Residence Abroad Tutors / Erasmus Coordinators at their discretion, on the basis of student preferences (as expressed on the Declaration of Intent form, for which the deadline is 31 January (28 October for Japanese) and the practicalities of making the best possible use of the places available (e.g. giving some students their second or third choices if otherwise places would remain unfilled). Where appropriate, a student’s academic record (including work and attendance) as well as his/her reasons for choosing a particular partner institution may also be taken into account. Please note that Latin American exchange places are normally only available to those students achieving an average of 55% in their first year of study. Any student who is dissatisfied with the place allocated may bring his/her case to the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee for a final decision. This should be done by setting out the reasons for dissatisfaction in writing and sending them to the Chair of the Committee. (See Appendix 2 for contact details.) Arabic, Hebrew and Turkish students should closely follow the instructions provided by their Residence Abroad Tutor and the relevant country specialists at the initial and predeparture briefing meetings to secure a place at their chosen institution. Students of

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Persian remain in the UK and follow a special “residence abroad at home” programme in Manchester during their third year of study. Russian students should closely follow the instructions provided by their Residence Abroad Tutor at the initial briefing meeting to secure a place on their chosen RLUS course(s). Applying to Your Host University Once you have been allocated a place at a partner university you will be required to complete their application process. Deadlines for applications usually fall in May or June (but are earlier for universities in Japan). Your Residence Abroad Tutor and the Residence Abroad Coordinator will be happy to advise and support you.

Work [Please note that this option is not normally available for Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish. Opportunities for work are also very limited in Japan.]

Work as an English Language Assistant (ELA) See the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15 and the Residence Abroad Blackboard site for information and guidance. Also make a point of reading the British Council’s website for English Language Assistants carefully. You can find this at www.britishcouncil.org/languageassistants-ela.htm .

Other Approved Employment Work placements for 2014-15 must be approved and fully confirmed by 15 April 2014. Students should email a completed Work Placement Approval form (available from the Residence Abroad Blackboard site) to the relevant Residence Abroad or Work Placements Tutor well in advance of this date (and no later than a week before the 30 April deadline) and await his/her approval before committing themselves to a contract with a prospective employer. A Training Agreement must normally also be signed by the employer, the University and the student. Students should visit the Residence Abroad Blackboard site to download Erasmus and / or non-Erasmus versions of this document and for further advice. Paid or unpaid employment, internships, voluntary work and other self-organised activities must ALWAYS be approved in advance by the relevant Residence Abroad or Work Placements Tutor. (This does not apply to the British Council or Comenius ELA schemes, which are pre-approved activities.) All cases where the Tutor recommends that approval be withheld will be referred to the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee for a final decision.

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See the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15 and the Residence Abroad Blackboard site for further important information and guidance.

Dissertation research Students spending an 8 week vacation period abroad may also undertake dissertation research. They must agree an appropriate research plan in advance with their (provisional) dissertation supervisor. On their return, they must provide to the supervisor satisfactory evidence of completion of this plan, in the form of sources gathered and a detailed research journal.

Funding and Fees See Chapter 6 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15 for information and guidance on funding (including Erasmus) and fees. Students who are spending eight weeks abroad in an approved activity can apply to the School for £600 to be paid into their bank accounts in advance (the so-called ‘vacation grant’). The Residence Abroad Coordinator will circulate the Vacation Residence Abroad Form (the application form for the vacation grant) by March. The deadline for submission of this form is 30 April (for vacation residence abroad taking place in the same calendar year).

Planning Your Period of Residence Abroad The formal process of applying for and confirming your period of residence abroad does not usually begin until your second year of study (except for IPML4 students, who need to have their residence abroad arrangements in place by 30 April in their first year of study). The timeline below should help guide your residence abroad planning: 

October to December

28 October 15 November December 31 January February/March

attend Residence Abroad Briefing meetings to gain full details on the options open to you, meet returning students and ask questions  begin to focus research on potential universities, employers etc.  if you plan to find a job you should perfect your CV and covering letter and begin approaching potential employers Declaration of Intent Deadline for Japanese Internal deadline for British Council English Language Assistantship Applications (reference requests must be made at least one week prior to this deadline) Japanese students advised of university exchange allocations Declaration of Intent Deadline for Chinese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish (study abroad and work placements) Students are advised of Chinese, French, German, Italian, 18

April/May 15 April

30 April

January to August April to September

Portuguese and Spanish Erasmus/other university exchange allocations  applicants for English Language Assistantships receive offer / rejection letters from the British Council  final Residence Abroad and International Programmes Office Briefing meetings  Deadline for approval of work placements  Deadline for submission of Confirmation of Residence Abroad Plans form (‘yellow form’), countersigned (where appropriate) by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor  Deadline for submission of Vacation Residence Abroad form (for vacation residence abroad taking place in the same year) Deadlines for applications to partner universities Begin to research accommodation options

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SECTION TWO: During your Time Abroad Responsibilities of the School and Responsibilities of the Student Responsibilities of the School Within the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, the School’s Residence Abroad Coordinator, the subject discipline Residence Abroad Tutors and students’ Academic Advisers will do all they can to help support you during your period of residence abroad. We certainly will not forget about you but of course, we cannot provide exactly the same level of pastoral care as we do in Manchester. We hope that you will reap the rewards of having to make your own decisions and take responsibility for yourself. The School will form part of a support team, including parents and friends, providing you with prompt advice and guidance via email and telephone both prior to, and during, your period of residence abroad. Responsibilities of the Student: Keeping in Touch You must regularly (daily if possible) check your University email account for communication from the School and other University contacts. (Your University email account will serve as the main means of communication.) Take the initiative and promptly inform the Residence Abroad Coordinator / relevant Residence Abroad Tutor of any problems / changes to your circumstances. You should also maintain regular contact with your Academic Adviser, who may be a useful source of alternative / additional advice and guidance. Staff Visits Wherever possible, a member of staff will be coming to visit you. You must make every effort to ensure that you are able to meet him/her. (If you will be working, this must be made clear to employers before contracts are signed.) Students will be able to claim reimbursement of travel expenses where appropriate. Please see Section 11 of the School Residence Abroad Regulations 2014-15 (Appendix 1) for further detail.

Changes to Arrangements, Special Circumstances & Exemption Changes to the residence abroad arrangements as recorded on the “yellow form” confirming residence abroad plans can normally NOT be made. Students are therefore urged to research their choices carefully in advance. Where students are planning to take up work placements, it is their responsibility to obtain information (preferably in writing, in case of problems arising later) from the proposed employer about the level of exposure to the target language that they are likely to experience. If students are encountering problems of any kind with their chosen residence abroad activity, they must contact the relevant member of staff (usually the Residence Abroad Tutor or the Residence Abroad Coordinator) immediately, so that

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appropriate advice and be given and, if necessary, appropriate changes to the student's residence abroad plans can be agreed. Students who do not follow the agreed plan or fail to contact their Residence Abroad Tutor (or the Residence Abroad Coordinator) as soon as problems arise will be considered to have flouted the residence abroad regulations and will be subject to the procedures set out in the Residence Abroad Regulations 2014-15 (Appendix 1, Section 1.7). The same applies to students who arrange any changes of activity without prior consultation with, and approval from, the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor. In other words, students who are found to have done so will be considered to have flouted the residence abroad regulations and will be subject to the procedures set out in the Residence Abroad Regulations 2014-15 (Appendix 1, Section 1.7). In some cases, it may be necessary for a student to return to the UK without having fulfilled the relevant residence abroad requirements. Provided that this is done with the Residence Abroad Tutor’s prior approval and documentary evidence (e.g. a medical certificate) of the special circumstances prompting the early return is submitted, this will not affect the student’s degree. Further details of the implications of full or partial exemption from the residence abroad requirements can be found on pp. 13f. of this handbook.

Requirements and Collecting Evidence General Requirements: The Learning Log Each subject discipline will distribute a Learning Log (a collection of residence abroad tasks which acts as your residence abroad PDP) to students via email and Blackboard. We would encourage you to complete the Learning Log tasks, so that you can receive feedback on your linguistic progress, but for most languages this is not a formal requirement. For further details please see the relevant Learning Log.

The Questionnaires: Arrival Questionnaire, Student Experience Questionnaire and General Feedback Questionnaire Students are required to complete the Arrival questionnaire within two weeks of arrival at their destination(s) and the Student Experience questionnaire at the end of each placement. The General Feedback questionnaire is optional, but we would encourage you to complete it, as your feedback will enable us to look into ways of improving the student experience for future residence abroad students.

Helping Other Manchester Students You are required to help other Manchester students by responding to their questions about your residence abroad activity / the city / region you are living in etc.

Studying Abroad: the School’s requirements and how to collect evidence Provided you have completed the relevant application forms, your host university will be expecting you to arrive. They will normally contact you prior to your arrival with instructions, 21

details of orientation activities etc. Don’t panic if this doesn’t happen, or friends receive the information and you don’t. You should be able to resolve the problem with a simple email or phone call to your host university’s International Office. You are likely to be one of many Erasmus / Exchange / Visiting International students, so look out for noticeboards, clubs, societies or any associations intended for this group or for international students in general. In some countries they have a web presence, so you may be able to locate them on the internet before you leave the UK. Use your ingenuity to find them (and, as always, ask Manchester students currently at, or recently returned from, the relevant institution). Registration is likely to be a very frustrating process, so prepare yourself by getting tips from former students and re-reading the information you have been sent by your host institution, detailing what will be required of you, and the host institution’s website for relevant documentation / directories of courses etc. In some universities you will be faced with long queues, short office hours for the university administration, extra bureaucracy and a generally less polite and helpful attitude than you are used to at Manchester. The main point for you to bear in mind is that you always need to take the initiative. Students on the continent are expected to organise things for themselves and to find out what they don't know, so sitting back and waiting for information to come to you can have serious consequences. When in doubt, ask questions. Make use of the university's International Office and go to see your designated Erasmus / International Exchange Coordinator about any academic issues. Most universities allow you to add and drop course units for a limited period following your arrival. It’s essential that you make sure you catch up on all key information (including about assessment) if you have taken advantage of this opportunity and missed the first lecture or seminar for a course that you then decide to take. For country specific information, guidance and tips see the Residence Abroad Blackboard site and International Programmes Office country pages (linked from the Residence Abroad Blackboard site). The following sets out the requirements which are normally applicable to all students undertaking a period of study abroad, unless they are overridden by the more specific requirements stipulated by individual subject disciplines. Students of Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian and Middle Eastern Studies should pay particular attention to any additional information circulated via email or Blackboard. This also applies to those students taking part in a Latin American exchange. Students spending 16 or 32 weeks abroad All students studying at a foreign university (or other institution, e.g. in the case of Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Russian) must attend all classes for an approved number of courses (as determined by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor), complete the associated examinations or other assessments and collect appropriate evidence (normally in the form of a transcript of results) to prove that they have done so. Students are normally required to pass the relevant assessment(s) for each course taken. In cases of exam failure, credits for residence abroad may be withheld and, where appropriate, students may be obliged to pay back all or part of their Erasmus Study grant. However, students who can provide satisfactory evidence of having fully 22

engaged with the course in question (e.g. lecture notes, handouts, revision notes, homework, essays) are usually considered to have fulfilled the residence abroad (and hence Erasmus) requirements. Only the local pass mark is acceptable (i.e. the University of Manchester’s pass mark of 40% does not apply to your studies abroad). If you miss an examination due to ill-health or some other form of special circumstances you should immediately contact your Residence Abroad Tutor or the Residence Abroad Coordinator to make them aware of the situation and collect evidence to back up your case (e.g. doctor’s note).

What to do if staff and / or students at the host university decide to go on strike If this situation arises you should NOT return home. It is your responsibility to ensure that you take steps to maximise your exposure to the target language through independent study, part-time work, voluntary work, joining clubs and societies, language exchanges, social activities, visiting museums, and getting to know your area. Keep Manchester informed of the situation and maintain contact with your host university for information on rescheduled classes, examinations etc. Erasmus Study The more specific requirements for students participating in an Erasmus exchange are:   

to accumulate 25-30 ECTS credits or equivalent per semester to complete their host institution’s Learning Agreement form and return a signed copy to the Residence Abroad Coordinator within a month from the beginning of the host institution’s semester to obtain a transcript of records (or equivalent), listing all courses taken and results achieved, unless they have been informed that this document will be sent to the Residence Abroad Coordinator direct by the host institution

If your host institution does not provide a Learning Agreement form, you can use the generic University of Manchester form, which is available for download from the Residence Abroad Blackboard site Erasmus students must closely follow the instructions provided by the International Programmes Office in order to guarantee payment of the Erasmus grant. Failure to return the relevant paperwork by the relevant deadline will lead to the withdrawal of Erasmus funding and status. Tip: Before you return to Manchester, you should make sure your host university understands how important it is that you receive a transcript of your results. Find out exactly how this process works and who is responsible for producing and sending the transcript, if you can’t have one issued before you leave. Expecting lecturers to send course certificates (even if you leave a stamped addressed envelope with them) is a very risky strategy and should be avoided. Whatever the circumstances, it is essential that you keep hold of lecture notes, essays and handouts as back-up in case you have problems obtaining a transcript or you fail a course.

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Working Abroad: the School’s requirements and how to collect evidence British Council English Language Assistants A brief training course is usually given in each country. This normally takes place before you start (in September / October), and students report that it is well worth attending, both for the professional training and for making personal contacts. The British Council provides prospective ELAs with a helpful booklet and gives a tremendous amount of information and support through its website at www.languageassistant.co.uk, so take advantage of it. Occasionally, schools are not entirely sure what to expect of ELAs. In such cases you should not hesitate to show them the British Council information, spelling out your duties. You may need to be firm and clear about what you are and are not prepared to do. Sometimes you may be asked to help out with a class at very short notice. You are within your rights to refuse to do so, but if you decide to say ”Yes”, it will earn you a lot of good will. Having a stock of class activities ready in your bag can prove invaluable in such circumstances, so try and get some materials together before you go! What you get out of it depends very much on what you put in – it always pays to show willing and take the initiative. Get involved – don’t just sit at home watching television. If you are having difficulty getting to know people, take up a hobby and join a club. Say “Yes” to any chance of meeting new people (provided it’s safe, of course!), even if your natural instinct is to say “No”. ELAs are paid in monthly arrears, which means that your first salary instalment may not arrive until the end of October. Schools may be able to arrange a payment in advance, but you should take enough money out to cover the first six weeks’ expenses (at least £1000). Students working as English Language Assistants in schools will be considered to have fulfilled the requirements on receipt of a satisfactory report, either from an authorised representative of the school at which they taught, or from the Education Ministry of the country or federal state concerned. The report may take the form of a ‘Transcript of Work’. Other Approved Employment If you take up a form of approved employment other than an ELA post, you are required to submit, on your return to Manchester, a ‘Transcript of Work’ from your employer confirming the dates worked and commenting on your performance.

Tip: You should also ensure that you are able to provide other evidence (e.g. payslips) if necessary. Erasmus Work students must closely follow the instructions provided by the International Programmes Office in order to guarantee payment of the Erasmus grant. Failure to return the relevant paperwork by the relevant deadline will lead to the withdrawal of Erasmus funding and status.

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Some advice from previous work placement students: 



 

‘Make sure you have a mentor figure in the company, whom you know you can approach if you have any problems. Before the start of a placement, it’s easy to assume everything will go according to plan, but obviously this can’t be guaranteed, and it’s essential you have someone who can help should there be difficulties’. ‘Make sure you know what your role is before you get there on the first day: it helps your mental preparation and concentration on arrival. Plus, if appropriate, you can do a bit of reading up on the company/particular aspect of the business in which you’ll be involved’. ‘Familiarizing yourself with some relevant vocabulary could prove massively helpful in speeding up the learning process and settling into your role when you arrive’. ‘If unsure: ASK!’

If you are within reach of a university you should make a point of looking into the possibility of registering as a visiting student or simply sitting in on lectures. Having student status usually entitles you to a range of financial benefits and it could also give you the opportunity to meet further speakers of your target language. The cost of registering as a visiting student varies from country to country and you may have to wade through some bureaucracy but those students who persevere usually find it is worth it.

Students spending 8 weeks abroad Students who spend eight weeks of the summer vacation abroad pursuing an approved activity (e.g. one or more language courses, paid or unpaid work placements, dissertation research, or a combination of these activities) lasting at least six weeks in total are required to submit on their return appropriate documentary evidence:   

In the case of language courses this consists of certificates of satisfactory work and attendance A satisfactory report from the employer is required for work placements. Students should also ensure that they are able to provide other evidence (e.g. payslips) if necessary Students undertaking dissertation research must provide their (provisional) supervisor with satisfactory evidence of completion of their research plan, in the form of sources gathered and a detailed research journal.

If fewer than six of the required eight weeks of the time abroad are taken up by the approved activity/activities, students are expected to submit on their return a project in the target language of 500 words per week not spent on that activity. (Example: a student attending only one five-week course will write a project of 1500 words, as three of the eight weeks abroad have not been spent on a course.) The topic of the project is to be agreed with the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor in advance. In any case, all students spending eight weeks abroad, but pursuing an approved activity for a period shorter than eight weeks, must provide evidence of the duration of their stay (e.g. flight tickets). The 8 weeks of vacation residence abroad must normally be undertaken during the summer immediately preceding the final year of studies.

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Course Unit Selection for your Final Year You will be notified by email once course unit descriptions are available via our website . If you have any questions or concerns regarding course unit selection, please contact the relevant UG Programme Administrator. (See Appendix 2 for contact details.) Please remember that options and other information may not reach you if you don’t keep your contact details up to date on the Student System and / or fail to check your University email account.

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SECTION THREE: Returning to Manchester

Submitting Evidence You must submit appropriate evidence that you have fulfilled the residence abroad requirements to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by the Monday of ‘Welcome Week’ (the exact date will be circulated nearer the time). Evidence will be closely examined by the Residence Abroad Coordinator and Residence Abroad Tutor to ensure that it fulfils the requirements for your degree programme. If this is the case, you will receive an email confirming that you have submitted satisfactory evidence and that you are considered to have fulfilled the School’s residence abroad requirements. Tip: submit your evidence as soon as you can in order to allow time for the resolution of any potential problems (e.g. missing examination results etc.). Faxed, emailed, scanned and photocopied evidence is usually acceptable. You are required to keep original copies of everything you send / hand in as back-up, in case it is misplaced / lost in the post etc. Do NOT submit originals.

Providing Feedback You will have ample opportunity to give feedback on your experiences via the Student Experience Questionnaire, the General Feedback Questionnaire and email. You are also encouraged to provide feedback in person during the office hours of your Residence Abroad Tutor and the Residence Abroad Coordinator. Some Residence Abroad Tutors will hold informal group debriefing meetings which you will be expected to attend. We will use the feedback we receive to better inform future residence abroad students about what to expect and to further develop our practice in the area. We will also expect you to help out, wherever possible, with briefing students undertaking residence abroad in 2015-16, responding to their questions about your residence abroad activity and the city / region you lived in etc.

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Appendix 1: Residence Abroad Regulations 2014-15

University of Manchester

School of Arts, Languages and Cultures Residence Abroad Regulations 2014-15

Chair of the School’s Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee: Dr Wiebke BrockhausGrand (Room S3.26; [email protected], tel. 07973 709 099); Residence Abroad Coordinator: Ms Shàdy Nowrouz. (Room S3.7; [email protected], tel. 0161 275 8123, fax 0161 275 3031) Please note that, although these regulations convey most of the relevant information, students are expected to check regularly the appropriate residence abroad noticeboards, web pages and the Residence Abroad Blackboard site for further details (such as the dates of meetings). Students must also regularly (daily, if possible) check their University email accounts, as information will be communicated via this method. It is their responsibility to adjust the settings of any spam filters to ensure that messages from the School are received. Failure to comply with these regulations will lead to the withholding of some or all of the credits for the period of residence abroad. Where up to 20 credits have been withheld, at the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee's discretion, students may be permitted to make up these credits in the course of the final year of study. Where all credits have been withheld, this will lead to students being put on track for an unclassified (ordinary) degree. All cases where the withholding of some or all of the credits is proposed must be discussed at a meeting of the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee. In preparation for such a meeting, the Residence Abroad Coordinator will contact the student either directly or through another member of staff to establish whether any special circumstances need to be taken into consideration.

1.

Regulations 1.1 Period of residence abroad. There are compulsory periods of residence abroad for most students following Single and Joint Honours and the Integrated (Professional) Master in Modern Languages programmes of study in the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, and for those students following Honours programmes in Combined Studies that involve a modern foreign language. The period of residence abroad varies in nature and length according to the degree programme for which the student is registered, and the definitions given below do not apply to Russian, where special arrangements are in place (please refer to section 9). Satisfactory completion of a 32-week period of residence abroad (or equivalent) carries 120 credits. Note that in what follows references to ‘countries where a particular language is spoken’ are to be understood as ‘countries where the language in question is an official language’. In countries where there is more than one official language the student will be required to reside in an area where the target language is spoken. (The only exception to this is Russian, where a broader interpretation of the phrase is intended.) Ab-initio students are required to complete a period of at least 16 weeks / one semester under approved conditions in a country where the target language is spoken. The following list indicates the standard requirements for various degree programmes. It may, however, be possible to make slightly different arrangements, provided that the conditions set out in the paragraphs immediately following the list are met.

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 



Single Honours in Chinese Studies, French Studies, German Studies, Italian Studies and Japanese Studies: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks Single Honours in Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American Studies: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks. However, those students who wish to continue to study Portuguese in their final year are required spend EITHER 32 weeks in a Spanish speaking country plus 8 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country OR 16 weeks in a Spanish speaking country and 16 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country Single Honours in Middle Eastern Studies and a Middle Eastern Language (Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish): the period of residence abroad is an academic year (NB. Due to the political situation in Iran, students of Persian follow a special “residence abroad at home” programme in Manchester during their third year of study)

 









  

  

Single Honours in Middle Eastern Languages: the period of residence abroad is an academic year split equally between the two languages Joint Honours in American and Latin American Studies: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks. However, those students who wish to continue to study Portuguese in their final year are required spend EITHER 32 weeks in a Spanish speaking country plus 8 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country OR 16 weeks in a Spanish speaking country and 16 weeks in a Portuguese speaking country Joint Honours which include one European language in the title, including English Language and a Modern Language, English Literature and a Modern Language, History and a Modern Language, History of Art and a Modern Language, Linguistics and a Modern Language, Modern Language and Business & Management, Screen Studies and a Modern Language: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks Joint Honours in European Studies and Modern Languages: the period of residence abroad in a country of the major language is 32 weeks. However, under exceptional circumstances, the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee may consider applications from students to undertake a 16 week period of residence abroad in a country of their minor language alongside a 16 week period of residence abroad in a country of the language named in the degree title. Students wishing to take advantage of this option must seek the Committee’s approval well in advance of the deadline for confirmation of residence abroad plans (30 April). Joint Honours in two Modern European languages: the period of residence abroad is normally EITHER 32 weeks in the country where one of the languages studied is spoken plus eight weeks in the country where the other language studied is spoken OR 16 weeks in the country where one of the languages studied is spoken plus 16 weeks in the country where the other language studied is spoken. (See below for further details.) Joint Honours in a Modern European language and a Middle Eastern Language: the period of residence abroad is EITHER two academic semesters in the country where the Middle Eastern language is spoken plus eight weeks in the country where the Modern European language is spoken OR one academic semester in the country where the Middle Eastern language is spoken plus 16 weeks in the country where the Modern European language is spoken Joint Honours which include one Middle Eastern language in the title, including English Language and a Middle Eastern Language and Linguistics and a Middle Eastern Language: the period of residence abroad is an academic year Joint Honours which include Chinese or Japanese and a non-language discipline in the title: the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks Joint Honours which include Chinese or Japanese and another language in the title: the period of residence abroad is EITHER 32 weeks in Japan or China plus eight weeks in the country where the other language studied is spoken or 16 weeks in China or Japan plus 16 weeks in a country where the other language is spoken. Attention is drawn to the discipline requirements. Master of Modern Languages: Please refer to the regulations for the Master of Modern Languages programme, which are published separately Integrated Professional Master in Languages (IPML): Please refer to the IPML programme regulations, which are published separately Honours in Combined Studies: if the total value of course units in a modern foreign language amounts to 180 credits or more, the period of residence abroad is 32 weeks;

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otherwise, the requirement is for eight weeks’ vacation residence in a country in which the language studied is spoken The above figures are to be understood as minima and do not include periods spent away from the country/countries where the language(s) being studied is/are spoken. Where, for reasons beyond the student’s and/or the School’s control, it is impossible to engage in an activity for the full 32 weeks (e.g. because contracts for certain types of English Language Assistantships last for only 28 weeks), it is strongly recommended that students find an additional activity abroad for the outstanding period. Please note that this does not apply to self-organised work placements, where the 32 week period is a requirement for Residence Abroad Tutor approval. Students who are required to undertake a ‘year abroad’ are urged to use vacation periods to spend, in addition, as much time as possible in countries where the target language is spoken. Joint Honours students who are required to undertake a period of residence abroad for more than one language must complete a total of at least 32 weeks abroad (with a minimum of 12 weeks in the country of one of the two languages, e.g. 12 weeks in country A and 20 weeks in country B, or 14 weeks in country A and 18 weeks in country B etc.). If fewer than 12 weeks are spent in one country, the requirement for the other country automatically becomes 32 weeks. Students whose residence abroad activity falls only slightly short of the requisite 16 or 32 weeks may prove they were in the relevant country using flight tickets or accommodation receipts for up to 2 or 4 weeks respectively. Students in Combined Studies whose total credits in a European or Middle Eastern language do not amount to 180 credits may, with the permission of the School, interrupt their studies in Manchester and fulfil the residence abroad requirement by spending more than 8 weeks in the country/countries of their target language(s). At least 8 weeks of the time spent abroad in this way must be devoted to an activity approved in advance by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor. 1.2

Approval of arrangements. While Residence Abroad Tutors and the Residence Abroad Coordinator will offer help and advice, it is ultimately the responsibility of students to ensure that the necessary arrangements are made for the period or periods they are required to spend abroad as an integral part of the degree programme for which they are registered. All such arrangements must be approved, before the period of residence abroad begins, and students are required to submit to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 30 April a yellow form countersigned, where appropriate, by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor confirming their arrangements for residence abroad. Approval for any subsequent change in arrangements will only be given in exceptional circumstances. Students are advised that their residence abroad plans constitute serious commitments, which they will be expected to honour. Students who make changes to their arrangements which have not been approved by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor(s) in advance, and/or who pursue activities considered unsuitable by the School’s Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee will be deemed to have flouted the residence abroad regulations and will be subject to the procedures set out in 1.7 below.

1.3

Approved activities. Approval will normally be forthcoming for the following types of activity:   

study at a university, normally as an Erasmus / official Latin American / Chinese / Japanese exchange student; work as an English Language Assistant (ELA), under the auspices of the British Council or Comenius programmes; in the case of Russia, attendance of a course organised by Russian Language Undergraduate Studies (RLUS) at a Russian university or private language school;

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 

in the case of Middle Eastern Languages, attendance of those courses at a university or language school stipulated by the Residence Abroad Tutor for Middle Eastern Studies; other approved employment (not applicable for Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew, Japanese, Persian or Turkish.)

Except where special arrangements are in place, all students must complete a Declaration of Intent form, stating their proposed residence abroad activities and submit this form by 31 January (28 October for Japanese). Where proposals include activities other than those listed above, subject disciplines will need to be satisfied that students will derive sufficient linguistic and cultural experience from them before approval can be given by the relevant Residence Abroad (or Work Placements) Tutor. Paid or unpaid employment, internships, voluntary work and other self-organised activities must always be approved in advance by the relevant Residence Abroad (or Work Placements) Tutor. All cases where the Tutor recommends that approval be withheld will be referred to the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee for a final decision. All students are required to complete the Self-Referral Health and Safety Questionnaire issued by the University’s Student Occupational Health Service (see Appendix 10 of this handbook or page 73 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15) prior to departure. Students are expected to make their Residence Abroad Tutor or the Residence Abroad Coordinator aware of any special circumstances that could have an impact / are having an impact on the period of residence abroad. They should do this as soon as possible, so that appropriate arrangements can be made early enough for students to benefit fully. Erasmus and other official exchange places are allocated by Residence Abroad Tutors / Erasmus Coordinators at their discretion, on the basis of student preferences (as expressed on the Declaration of Intent form) and the practicalities of making the best possible use of the places available (e.g. giving some students their second or third choices if otherwise places would remain unfilled). Where appropriate, a student’s academic record (including work and attendance) as well as his/her reasons for choosing a particular partner institution may also be taken into account. Any student who is dissatisfied with the place allocated may bring his/her case to the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee for a final decision. This should be done by setting out the reasons for dissatisfaction in writing and sending them to the Chair of the Committee. 1.4

Students undertaking a period of residence abroad are required to complete the online registration process in September. In case of difficulties with financial registration students should contact the Student Services Centre. If difficulties are experienced with any other aspect of the registration process students should contact their Undergraduate Support Officer in the first instance. As soon as possible after arrival, students must inform the University of their new address and telephone number abroad by updating their records on the Student System. Students must immediately update the system with any subsequent changes of address or telephone number. If students have problems logging into the Student System they should contact the Student System Helpdesk to regain access and advise the Residence Abroad Coordinator or Programme Support Officer of their new contact details via email. Any changes in arrangements that they make for their stay abroad must have the PRIOR approval of the appropriate Residence Abroad Tutor. When required, students must make the necessary arrangements to meet any member of staff who comes to visit them during their time abroad.

1.5

In order to be awarded the appropriate number of credits for residence abroad, students must submit satisfactory evidence that they have fulfilled the relevant requirements. Failure to provide such evidence will attract the sanctions set out in 1.7 below. The following sub-sections set out the requirements which are normally applicable to all students participating in the relevant activity, unless they are overridden by the more specific requirements stipulated by individual subject disciplines.

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(a) Students spending 16 or 32 weeks abroad (i)

All students studying at a foreign university (or other institution, e.g. in the case of Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Russian) must normally attend all classes of an approved number of courses (as determined by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor), complete the associated examinations or other assessments, and bring back a transcript of results to prove that they have done so. Students are normally required to pass the relevant assessment(s) for each course taken. In cases of exam failure, credits for residence abroad may be withheld and, where applicable, students may be obliged to pay back all or part of their Erasmus Study grant. However, students who have valid reasons (i.e. not merely negligence on their part) for exam failure and can provide satisfactory evidence of having fully engaged with the course in question (e.g. lecture notes, handouts, revision notes, homework, essays) are usually considered to have fulfilled the requirements. Only the local pass mark is acceptable (i.e. the University of Manchester’s pass mark of 40 does not apply to your studies abroad). Students of Chinese, Japanese, Russian and Turkish normally attend all of the classes for courses prescribed by the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor, although they may be able to select some additional courses in close consultation with that tutor. Students on Erasmus (except in Turkey), Canadian and Latin American exchanges have more freedom. However, they should note that their choice of subjects to study at their host university must broadly reflect the subjects taken in Manchester, including the relative weightings of content vs. language courses. It may be further restricted to the particular subject area specified in the exchange agreement between the relevant Department in Manchester and its counterpart abroad, as the study of subjects falling outside the specified subject area is entirely at the host institution’s discretion. Students are therefore urged to check these details on the Residence Abroad Blackboard site before completing the Declaration of Intent form. Students are required to attend all of the classes for the courses approved by academic staff at the University of Manchester. Students must also complete by the specified dates all compulsory questionnaires (see p. 21). The more specific requirements for students participating in an Erasmus exchange are to accumulate 25-30 ECTS credits or equivalent per semester. For this purpose, students must complete their host institution’s Learning Agreement form and return a signed copy to the Residence Abroad Coordinator within a month from the beginning of the host university’s semester. In addition, they must obtain a transcript of records (or equivalent), listing all courses taken and results achieved, unless they have been informed that this document will be sent direct to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by the host institution 



Chinese: students must BOTH obtain a pass in all units at their host institution AND reach an agreed minimum standard in Chinese language, which can be demonstrated by EITHER: o passing HSK5 (or higher) and submitting the notification slip/certificate to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 15 September OR o passing an equivalent examination offered by EAS in Manchester during Welcome Week; German: as part of the 25-30 ECTS credits per semester, students must take one or more courses worth a total of at least 10 ECTS credits which are taught and assessed in German, and are available not only to foreign students. One of these courses must be concerned with an aspect of German / Austrian / Swiss culture, history and/or linguistics. A course certificate awarded merely on the basis of attendance (Teilnahmeschein) is not acceptable for any such course.

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  

Italian: students studying at an Italian University must take the examinations for all courses studied; Russian: students are required to follow the courses specified in Section 9 satisfactorily; Japanese: students must BOTH obtain a pass in sufficient units to satisfy the requirements of their host institution AND reach an agreed minimum standard in Japanese language, which can be demonstrated by EITHER: o passing JLPT2 (or higher) and submitting the notification slip/certificate to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 15 September OR o passing an equivalent examination offered by EAS in Manchester during Welcome Week;

(ii) Students working as English Language Assistants in schools will be deemed to have fulfilled the requirements on receipt of a satisfactory report, either from an authorised representative of the school at which they taught, or from the Education Ministry of the country or federal state concerned. In addition, students must complete and return to the relevant subject discipline by the specified dates all the compulsory questionnaires (see p. 21). (iii) Students who take up other approved forms of employment will be deemed to have fulfilled the requirements on receipt of a satisfactory report from their employer. Students should also ensure that they are able to provide other evidence (e.g. payslips) if necessary. In addition, students must complete and return to the relevant subject discipline by the specified dates all the compulsory questionnaires (see p. 21) (b) Students spending eight weeks abroad (i)

Students who spend eight weeks of the summer vacation abroad pursuing an approved activity (e.g. one or more language courses, paid or unpaid work placements, dissertation research, or a combination of these activities) lasting at least six weeks in total are required to submit on their return appropriate documentary evidence (see (iii) below). If fewer than six of the required eight weeks of the time abroad are taken up by the approved activity/activities, students are expected to submit on their return a project in the target language of 500 words per week not spent on that activity. (Example: A student attending only one five-week course will write a project of 1500 words, as three of the eight weeks abroad have not been spent on a course.) The topic of the project is to be agreed with the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor in advance. In any case, all students spending eight weeks abroad, but pursuing an approved activity for a period shorter than eight weeks, must provide evidence of the duration of their stay (e.g. flight tickets).

(ii) Information about language courses and work placements can be found on the Residence Abroad noticeboards (between S3.18 and S3.22) and in the residence abroad leaflet racks (by S3.7). The Residence Abroad Coordinator will provide students with access to a list of courses/activities undertaken by students in previous years. (iii) Appropriate documentary evidence in the case of language courses consists of certificates of satisfactory work and attendance, while a satisfactory report from the employer is required for work placements. (Students should also ensure that they are able to provide other evidence (e.g. payslips) if necessary.) (iv) Students undertaking dissertation research must agree an appropriate research plan in advance with their (provisional) dissertation supervisor. On their return, they must

33

provide to the supervisor satisfactory evidence of completion of this plan, in the form of sources gathered and a detailed research journal.

1.6

Students who anticipate that, for reasons beyond their control, they may be unable to fulfil the residence abroad requirements laid down under 1.5 above must contact the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor as soon as the difficulties become apparent. The Tutor (in consultation with the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee) will advise the student on the best course of action and will agree appropriate changes to the student’s residence abroad plans with him/her. NB. Changes to the residence abroad arrangements will normally not be approved retrospectively. Students who do not follow the agreed plan or fail to contact their Residence Abroad Tutor as soon as problems arise will be deemed to have flouted the residence abroad regulations and will be subject to the procedures set out in 1.7 below.

1.7

Failure to comply with these regulations will lead to the withholding of some or all of the credits for the period of residence abroad. Where up to 20 credits have been withheld, students may, at the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee's discretion, be permitted to make up these credits in the course of the final year of study. Where all credits have been withheld, this will lead to students being put on track for an unclassified (ordinary) degree. Students who have been engaged in an Erasmus-funded activity may be obliged to pay back all or part of their Erasmus grant. All cases where the withholding of some or all of the credits is proposed must normally be discussed at a meeting of the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee. In preparation for such a meeting, the Residence Abroad Coordinator will contact the student either directly or through another member of staff to establish whether any mitigating circumstances need to be taken into consideration.

1.8

There are normally two sets of circumstances under which students are considered for exemption from periods of residence abroad: (a) Students unlikely to benefit from further residence abroad The Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee may exempt those students from the relevant residence abroad requirements who meet both of the following conditions. Firstly, they should be able to demonstrate that they have had recent experience of living and studying or working in the country of the target language for a continuous period at least equivalent to that required by these regulations. (In this context, 'recent' is normally understood to mean not more than three years prior to the beginning of the required period of residence abroad.) Secondly, their level of competence in the language concerned should already be so high (at least 70% in first-year language) that no, or very little, further improvement can be expected to be achieved. (b) Students affected by special circumstances Students who, for compelling medical and/or personal reasons, anticipate being unable to spend the required period(s) abroad should contact the Residence Abroad Coordinator as soon as possible to discuss their situation. Independent documentary evidence is normally required for the Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee to agree to exempt a student from the usual residence abroad requirements. (If these special circumstances were in existence before the student was admitted to the programme of study, they should have been raised during the admissions process.) It should be noted that financial hardship is not normally considered a valid reason for exemption, unless this was wholly unforeseeable when the student embarked on the degree programme concerned. Students who do not fulfil the residence abroad requirements in their entirety do not benefit from the same exposure to target language and target culture as their peers. For this reason, students whose applications for exemption have been accepted are strongly advised not to proceed directly to the final year of study, but to take advantage of the opportunity to spend Year 3 in Manchester, registered as full-time students, but paying only the relevant residence abroad fee. During this period, they are then able to improve their language skills and cultural understanding by taking advantage of one or more of the following:

34

    

Access to the University Language Centre with its extensive range of language learning resources (including on-line), enabling them to put to full use the independent language learning skills practised under guidance from their tutors during Years 1 and 2 Access to the University library Permission to attend regularly classes in their subject discipline(s) at Levels 1 and/or 2 (chosen in consultation with their Academic Advisor), but without participating in assessments or gaining credits Permission to take one or two Tandem courses in their language(s) of study, provided that they commit themselves to full participation, including assessment (but any credits gained will not count towards their degree programme) Access to contact details of incoming exchange students, so that they can practise their speaking skills informally

Students who, for whatever reason, do not wish to remain enrolled for Year 3 will be given permission to interrupt their studies and leave Manchester. However, in such cases the University can accept no responsibility for any shortcomings in students’ skills, competences and understanding which may become apparent when they return for their final year of study and such shortcomings will not be accepted as grounds for any appeal or complaint at a later stage. Students who opt for this course of action will be required to sign a disclaimer to the effect that they accept the element of risk involved. A third option is for students to proceed from Year 2 directly into final year, but this almost inevitably puts them at a disadvantage compared to students returning from a period of residence abroad, and the University can accept no responsibility for any shortcomings in their skills, competences and understanding which may become apparent during the final year of study. Such shortcomings will not be accepted as grounds for any appeal or complaint at a later stage. Students who opt for this course of action will be required to sign a disclaimer to the effect that they accept the element of risk involved.

2.

Funding For details of fees due to be paid to the University of Manchester, as well as funding opportunities for the time abroad, students should consult Chapter 6 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014/2015. Students of Arabic, Hebrew and/or Russian attending one or more of the approved courses described in Sections 8 and 9 of these regulations have their course fees at the relevant institution(s) paid for them by the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures. A measure of financial support is available to students who will be spending eight weeks abroad. They can apply to the School for £600 in vacation grant funding to be paid into their bank accounts in advance. The Residence Abroad Coordinator will circulate the Vacation Residence Abroad Form (the application form for the vacation grant) by March. The deadline to submit the form is 30 April (for vacation residence abroad taking place in the same calendar year). Students on full-time work placements of 12 weeks or more are likely to be eligible for an Erasmus Work award, details of which are made available to students every year via the Blackboard site for residence abroad and in briefing meetings. Please note that students cannot apply for the vacation grant if they are to receive Erasmus Work funding.

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3.

Residence Abroad in China Residence Abroad Tutor: Dr Heather Inwood (Room W3.16; Tel. 0161 275 3126; [email protected]) Formal Links: Students whose degree programme regulations require them to spend their third year in China may apply for one of the places available to Manchester students either at Shanghai (Fudan and East China Normal), Nanjing, Beijing (Renmin, Normal and Tsinghua), Guangzhou (Sun Yat-Sen), Shandong, National Taiwan, Hangzhou (Zhejiang) or Chinese University of Hong Kong. Preparation. In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad, a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on how to find out about the town or city in which they will be living, and advice from any students who have already completed the period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in China will normally be made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them. Students should note that studying Mandarin in China normally consists of segregated language classes, in which exchange students are placed together according to proficiency level in speaking, writing and reading. Therefore, language programmes across exchange universities are largely similar, and content modules in Chinese are not normally taken. Language Attainment Requirement The minimum period of residence abroad for students taking two languages (e.g. French and Chinese) is 16 weeks in China. However, students are urged in the strongest possible terms to spend the full academic year in China, unless they already have a very high linguistic attainment (likely only in cases of previous residence in the country or native fluency). Students must pass the relevant language test (see below) in order to meet the residence abroad requirements, and the test is the same for all students, whether on Single or Joint Honours programmes. All students must satisfy the residence abroad requirements by BOTH obtaining a pass in all units at their host institution AND reaching an agreed minimum standard in Chinese language that can be demonstrated by either: i) Success in the relevant public examination (the HSK) at the designated level (5) or higher demonstrated by the notification slip/certificate (a copy must be sent to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 15 September) Or ii) A pass mark in an examination at the same level offered by EAS in Manchester in September. Students must make themselves available for this examination in September during Welcome Week. If a student does not present proof of an HSK5 pass or does not pass the September examination, that student will not have satisfactorily completed the requirements for the 120 credits from residence abroad.

4.

Residence Abroad in a French-speaking country Residence Abroad Tutor, Erasmus Coordinator, English Language Assistantships Tutor: Dr Vladimir Kapor (Room S4.8; Tel. 0161 275 3035; [email protected]) Work Placement Tutor: Dr Jérôme Brillaud ([email protected]) LLP ERASMUS STUDY exchange programmes. Students whose degree programme regulations require them to spend their third year in a French-speaking country may apply for one of the places available to Manchester students at one of the following partner universities: Antilles et de la Guyane, Avignon et des Pays de Vaucluse, Haute École de Bruxelles (Institut

36

Supérieur de Traducteurs et Interprètes), Geneva (École de traduction et d’interprétation), Grenoble 3 (Stendhal), Lyon 2 (Lumière), Lyon 3 (Jean Moulin), Lille 3 (Charles de Gaulle), Paris 4 (Sorbonne), Poitiers, Rennes 2 (Haute Bretagne), La Réunion, Toulouse 2 (Le Mirail). Other formal link: Université de Sherbrooke in Quebec (normally only available to those students who achieved an average of 55% in their first year of study). Please note that the academic year at this institution is organized into three trimesters: Autumn (late August – late December); Spring (early January to late April) and Summer (late April to late August). Prospective students are to sit a French language test in February to determine whether they would attend classes with the non-native or with the native stream. Further details of these institutions and practical advice on university study abroad are available via the Residence Abroad Blackboard site. English Language Assistantships. Application forms for posts as English Language Assistants in French and/or French-speaking schools may be obtained from the British Council’s website www.britishcouncil.org/languageassistants-how-do-i-apply-2.htm, and must be returned (together with a reference from the student's Academic Adviser) to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by mid-November. Dr Kapor is responsible for dealing with assistantships and will endeavour to help, should queries or problems arise. Employment. Students who wish to take up other forms of employment in a French-speaking country should be aware that the University is not in a position to arrange this for them. Dr Brillaud will be happy to advise and support students in the process of setting up a placement for themselves. Approval is required from Dr Brillaud. Further details and practical advice on work placements are available via the Blackboard site for residence abroad. Vacation residence. Students intending to fulfil the vacation residence requirement may do so by arranging a paid or unpaid work placement, taking one or more of the numerous university summer school courses in French as a foreign language which are offered by French institutions (see www.fle.fr for information), or conducting dissertation research. Details of the regulations governing these three options can be found in Section 1.5(b) and information about funding in Section 2. Preparation. In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad, a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on how to find out about the town or city in which they will be living, and advice from students who have already completed a period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in Frenchspeaking countries are normally made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them. More information about practicalities can be gained from existing students via the Blackboard site for residence abroad.

5.

Residence Abroad in a German-speaking country Residence Abroad Tutor, Erasmus Coordinator, English Language Assistantships Tutor, Work Placement Tutor: Dr Eva-Maria Broomer (Room S3.17; [email protected]; Tel. 0161 275 3175) LLP ERASMUS STUDY exchange programmes. German Studies operates LLP Erasmus Study exchange programmes with the Universities of Freiburg, Hamburg, Heidelberg and Leipzig as well as Berlin's Humboldt University in Germany, the University of Innsbruck in Austria, and the

37

University of Basel (Basle) in Switzerland. Further details of these institutions and practical advice on university study abroad are available on the Residence Abroad Blackboard site and in the Residence Abroad Office (S3.7). Students should note that the University of Hamburg accepts only full-year applications, so this institution is not an option for a single semester. The Humboldt-University in Berlin requires applicants to pass a rather demanding language test, so students who list HU Berlin as one of their choices on the online Declaration of Intent form must have achieved a mark of at least 65% in GERM10210 German Language Skills I (or 70% in GERM10100 Beginners’ German Language Skills). English Language Assistantships. Application forms for posts as English Language Assistants in German and Austrian schools may be obtained from the British Council’s website www.britishcouncil.org/languageassistants-how-do-i-apply-2.htm, and must be returned (together with a reference from the student's academic adviser) by mid-November. Competition for places has become quite fierce in recent years and there is no guarantee that applicants will be allocated a place, although the majority are successful. Dr Broomer is responsible for dealing with assistantships and will be happy to help, should queries or problems arise. Most assistantships run for a full academic year, so it is only occasionally possible to combine them with other activities lasting for more than 12 weeks during any one year. Employment. Students who wish to take up other forms of employment in a German-speaking country should be aware that the University is not in a position to arrange this for them. However, Dr Broomer, whose prior approval is required for any work placement, will be happy to advise and support students in the process of setting up a placement for themselves. Students will find it helpful to start their search using the links as well as the student contact details on the Residence Abroad Blackboard site. It is essential to begin searching and applying as early as October, because arrangements must be finalised by the end of April. Vacation residence. Students intending to fulfil the vacation residence requirement may do so by arranging a paid or unpaid work placement, taking one or more of the numerous university summer school courses in German as a foreign language which are offered by institutions in German-speaking countries, or conducting dissertation research. Details of the regulations governing these three options can be found in Section 1.5(b) and information about funding in Section 2. Further information and useful links are available on the Residence Abroad Blackboard site. Preparation. In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on all aspects of spending time in a German-speaking country and advice from students who have already completed the period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in a German-speaking country are normally made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them. An additional important source of relevant information is the Residence Abroad Blackboard site.

6.

Residence Abroad in an Italian-speaking country Residence Abroad Tutor, Erasmus Coordinator, English Language Assistantships Tutor, Work Placement Tutor: Dr Francesca Billiani (Room W3.14; Tel: 0161 275 8120; [email protected]) LLP ERASMUS STUDY exchange programmes. Italian Studies operates LLP ERASMUS STUDY exchange programmes with the Universities of Bergamo, Bologna, Macerata, Naples (Federico II), Palermo, Perugia, Pisa, Ferrara and Siena (per stranieri). Students of History and

38

Italian and of History of Art and Italian may be able to participate in exchanges with the Universities of Venice and Pavia, respectively. English Language Assistantships. Application forms for posts as English Language Assistants in Italian schools may be obtained from the British Council’s website www.britishcouncil.org/languageassistants-how-do-i-apply-2.htm, and must be returned (together with a reference from the student's academic adviser) by mid-November. Assistantships are limited in number and are available only to students spending a full academic year in Italy. Anyone seriously interested in taking up this option should see the Residence Abroad Tutor as soon as possible after the start of the academic year. Employment. Students who wish to take up other forms of employment in Italy should be aware that the University is not in a position to arrange this for them. However, Dr Billiani, whose prior approval is required for any work placement, will be happy to advise and support students in the process of setting up a placement for themselves. Vacation residence. Students intending to fulfil the vacation residence requirement may do so by arranging a paid or unpaid work placement, taking one or more of the numerous university summer school courses in Italian as a foreign language which are offered by institutions in Italy, or conducting dissertation research. Details of the regulations governing these three options can be found in Section 1.5(b) and information about funding in Section 2. Preparation. In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on how to find out about the town or city in which they will be living, advice from students who have already completed the period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed, and there is an opportunity to meet Italian students from those universities in Italy with which Italian Studies has exchange schemes. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in Italy are normally made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them. An additional important source of relevant information is the Residence Abroad Blackboard site.

7.

Residence Abroad in Japan Residence Abroad Tutor: Dr. Peter Cave (Room NG1; Tel. 0161 275 3195; [email protected]). Deputy Residence Abroad Tutor: Dr Aya Homei (Room NG1; Tel. 0161 306 1819; [email protected]). Formal links: Chuo, Dokkyo, Hiroshima, Hitotsubashi, Hokkaido, Kansai, Kansai Gaidai, Keio, Kobe, Kwansei Gakuin, Kyoto, Meiji, Meiji Gakuin, Nanzan, Ochanomizu (women only), Osaka, Rikkyo, Ritsumeikan, Saitama, Tokyo, Tokyo Gaigodai, Waseda, Yamagata universities Preparation In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on how to find out about the town or city in which they will be living, and advice from students who have recently completed a period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in Japan are normally made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them. Language Attainment Requirement The minimum period of residence abroad for students taking two languages (e.g. French and Japanese) is 16 weeks in Japan. However, students are urged in the strongest possible terms to spend the full academic year there, unless they already have a very high linguistic attainment

39

(likely only in cases of previous residence in the country). Students must pass the relevant language test (see below) in order to meet the residence abroad requirements, and the test is the same for all students, whether on Single or Joint Honours programmes. All students must satisfy the residence abroad requirements by BOTH obtaining a pass in all units at their host institution AND by reaching an agreed minimum standard in Japanese language that can be demonstrated by either: i) Success in the relevant public examination (the Japanese Language Proficiency Test or JLPT) at the designated level (2) or higher demonstrated by the notification slip/certificate (a copy must be sent to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 15 September) Or ii) A pass mark in an examination at the same level offered by EAS in Manchester in September. Students must make themselves available for this examination in September during Welcome Week. Students not presenting proof of a pass in JLPT2 or not passing the September examination in Manchester will be considered to have failed to fulfil the requirements for the 120 credits from residence abroad.

8.

Residence Abroad in Arabic-, Hebrew-, Persian- and Turkish-speaking countries Residence Abroad Tutor (also specialist for Hebrew) Mrs Sophie Garside (Room SG.21; Tel. 0161 275 3067;[email protected]) Please note that Mrs Garside will be on sabbatical during semester one of the 2014-15 academic year. Her replacement is yet to be confirmed. Mrs Garside is supported by: Mrs Tuğgen Collard (Erasmus Coordinator, specialist for Turkish: Room SG.17; Tel 0161 275 0391; [email protected]) Dr Siavash Rafiee Rad (specialist for Persian: Room SG.17; Tel 0161 275 8595; [email protected]) Dr Dalia Mostafa (specialist for Arabic: Room SG.7; Tel 0161 275 3068; [email protected] LLP ERASMUS STUDY exchange programmes: Middle Eastern Studies operates an LLP Erasmus Study exchange programme with Kültür University, Istanbul (Turkish). Other formal links: Middle Eastern Studies operates formal links with the Arab Academy, Cairo (suspended in 2013-14, decision pending for 2014-15), Egypt (Arabic), INLAC, Fez, Morocco (Arabic), Jordan Language Academy, Amman (Arabic), Hebrew University of Jerusalem (Hebrew) and the International Centre for Persian Studies, Tehran (Persian). (NB. Partnership suspended until further notice; students of Persian follow a special “residence abroad at home” programme in Manchester during their third year of study.) Preparation In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on how to find out about the town or city in which they will be living, and advice from students who have already completed the period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in a Middle Eastern country are normally made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them.

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9.

Residence Abroad in a Russian-speaking country Residence Abroad Tutor: Dr Lynne Attwood (Room W4.08; Tel. 0161 275 3133; [email protected]) Dr Attwood is assisted by Dr Ewa Ochman, Room N1.6; Tel 0161 275 3291; [email protected]) Study in Russia. Students normally spend the relevant period of residence abroad in Russia taking courses organised by Russian Language Undergraduate Studies (RLUS), a non-profit making educational charity which arranges language courses for students of Russian at British universities. They are therefore required to check the RLUS website (www.rlus.co.uk) for information about the various courses on offer and the cities in which they are located, as well as information about applying for visas etc. The tables below show the courses available to University of Manchester students of Russian. NB. RLUS does in fact offer other courses, but only those listed here can be taken by Manchester students. Students spending a full academic year in Russia:

Location and Name of Institution

Semester

Moscow (Language Link) Petrozavodsk (State University) St. Petersburg (Benedict School) St. Petersburg (State University) Tver (State University)

36

1 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 2

Kazan (Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities)

2

Yaroslavl’ (State University)

1 2

Course Duration (Weeks) 32 18 16

√

13

√

√

√ √

√ √

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√ √ √ √ √

Students spending only one semester in Russia: Location and Name of Institution Moscow (Language Link) Petrozavodsk (State University) St. Petersburg (Benedict School) St. Petersburg (State University) Tver (State University) Kazan (The Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities) Yaroslavl’ (State University)

Semester 1 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2

Course Duration (Weeks) 18 16 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

41

Employment. Subject to the Department’s approval, post-A-level Russian students and native or heritage speakers may make their own arrangements for a work placement or internship in a Russian-speaking country in lieu of attendance on a course. Students should note that this is a complicated process and that employers have reneged on contracts at the last minute in the past. However, REES does have some contacts in Russia who have previously provided students with successful internships. Vacation residence. Native or heritage speakers of Russian on degree programmes with two languages named in the degree title may be permitted to spend both semesters in a country where the other language studied is spoken. In this case a minimum of eight weeks must be spent in Russia in the summer vacation preceding Year 4. Vacation residence is only possible with Dr Attwood's prior approval and on condition that students are willing to assume full responsibility for making the relevant arrangements. Exemptions. Native and heritage speakers may be exempted from the relevant residence abroad requirements if their Russian is at a very advanced level and if they are deemed to have sufficient recent experience of Russia and Russian culture. For full guidance on this matter, please refer to Section 1.8 of these Residence Abroad Regulations. Preparation. The first meeting for all students due to go to Russia is normally held in the middle of the preceding November. This meeting will also be attended by some final year students, who have already spent the required period in Russia and will be able to offer advice and share their experiences. Students are invited to discuss their options individually with the Residence Abroad Tutor after this meeting. A second meeting is held in May. With the exception of students who choose to make their own arrangements for employment, all students are given advice and assistance, by staff at the University of Manchester and/or RLUS, as appropriate, with the necessary arrangements (course bookings, visas, insurance, and, if they wish, travel). Detailed briefing documents are also provided. Manchester will cover the cost of students’ tuition fees at their host institution(s), but students will be invoiced for other expenses (the RLUS administration fee; the fee for the official invitation from the host institution in Russia, which is needed for the visa applications; and, if applicable, air travel). Staff visits. Students on residence abroad in Russia normally receive a visit from Dr Attwood (which includes a free meal out) in late October. No staff visits are made to students who are in Russia only during Semester 2.

10.

Residence Abroad in a Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking country Residence Abroad Tutor, Erasmus Coordinator, Work Placement Coordinator, English Language Assistantship Tutor: Dr Parvathi Kumaraswami (Room N3.4; Tel. 0161 275 3046; [email protected]). Dr Parvathi Kumaraswami is supported for Portugal and Brazil by: Prof. Hilary Owen (Room N3.1; Tel. 0161 275 3687; [email protected]) LLP ERASMUS STUDY exchange programmes: Spanish, Portuguese and Latin-American Studies operates LLP Erasmus Study exchange programmes in Spain with the Universidad de Almería, Universidad de Alcalá de Henares, Universidad de Barcelona, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Universidad de Deusto (Bilbao), Universidad de La Rioja (Logroño), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Universidad de Sevilla, Universidad de Valencia, Universidad de Vigo and Universidad Europea Miguel de Cervantes (Valladolid); and, in Portugal, the universities of Coimbra, Lisbon and Porto. Other formal links: Spanish, Portuguese and Latin-American Studies also operates other formal links with the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Santiago); Universidad de las

42

Américas, Puebla (Mexico); Universidad ORT (Montevideo); Universidad del Salvador (Buenos Aires); Universidade Federal de Paraíba, João Pessoa (Brazil) (partnership suspended until further notice); Universidade de São Paulo (Brazil,) and La Habana (Cuba). Please note that Latin American exchange places are normally only available to those students achieving an average of 55% in their first year of study. English Language Assistantships. Application forms for posts as English Language Assistants in Hispanic and Portuguese schools may be obtained from the British Council’s website http://www.britishcouncil.org/languageassistants-how-do-i-apply-2.htm, and must be returned (together with a reference from the student's academic adviser) by mid-November. Assistantships run for a full academic year, so it is not possible to combine them with other activities lasting for more than 12 weeks during any one year. Employment. Students who wish to take up other forms of employment in a Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking country should be aware that the University is not in a position to arrange this for them. However, Dr Parvathi Kumaraswami, who has responsibility for the approval of work placements and voluntary work, will be happy to advise and support students in the process of setting up a placement for themselves. Students are required to seek prior approval from him for any work placement. Further information is available through the Residence Abroad Blackboard site. Vacation residence. Students intending to fulfil the vacation residence requirement may do so by arranging a paid or unpaid work placement, taking one or more of the numerous university summer school courses in Spanish or Portuguese for foreigners which are offered by institutions in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries, or conducting dissertation research. Details of the regulations governing these three options can be found in Section 1.5(b) and information about funding in Section 2. Preparation In order to help students get the most from their residence abroad a series of meetings is held during the course of Year 2, where students are provided with vital preparatory information and are given an opportunity to ask questions about their period of residence abroad. Practical information is given on how to find out about the town or city in which they will be living, and advice from students who have already completed the period of residence abroad is passed on and discussed. Email addresses of students currently studying or working in a Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking country are normally made available for the use of students who are planning their period of residence abroad and who may wish to contact them.

11.

Staff visits Members of the academic staff will visit students spending a period of residence abroad, if it is feasible to do so, and certainly if they are in countries in continental Europe and spending both semesters in the same country. The timing of meetings varies between language discipline areas, and students will be given an indication of likely dates well in advance. All students must make every effort to attend, travelling if necessary to the centre designated for the meeting. (Expenses incurred will be refunded.) These meetings provide a valuable opportunity to discuss progress, offer feedback on the experience of the period of residence abroad, consider the range of optional course units available in the final year of the degree programme, and raise any other matters of interest or concern with the visiting tutor. It is the responsibility of students during the period of residence abroad to facilitate arrangements for visits by members of staff, and to maintain contact with the language discipline(s) with which they are registered in Manchester throughout the year.

43

Appendix 2: Contact List CONTACTS IN THE SCHOOL OF ARTS, LANGUAGES AND CULTURES Shàdy Nowrouz Residence Abroad Coordinator Contact for: general information, advice and guidance on residence abroad, the residence abroad regulations, vacation grant, fulfilling the residence abroad requirements. Phone: 0161 275 8123 Room: S3.7 Email: [email protected] The Residence Abroad Coordinator is assisted by the Residence Abroad Assistant, Louise Steiger ([email protected]; tel. 0161 275 3648) Dr Wiebke Brockhaus-Grand Chair of the School’s Residence Abroad and Exchanges Committee Contact for: emergency support and advice; matters of School residence abroad policy and organisation; appeals against decisions made by the Committee Phone: 0161 275 3180 Mobile: 07973 709 099 Room: S3.26 Email: [email protected] The School’s fax number is 0161 275 3031. Residence Abroad Tutors Contact for: academic questions (advice and/or approval of course choices) Email (@manchester.ac.uk)

Name

Phone

Chinese Studies

Dr Heather Inwood

0161 275 3126

heather.inwood

French Studies

Dr Vladimir Kapor (Erasmus/ Quebec exchanges and ELAs) Dr Jérôme Brillaud (work placements)

0161 275 3035

vladimir.kapor

0161 275 3203

jerome.brillaud

German Studies

Dr Eva-Maria Broomer

Italian Studies

Dr Francesca Billiani)

Japanese Studies Middle Eastern Studies

Dr Peter Cave Dr Aya Homei (Deputy RA Tutor for Japanese) Mrs Sophie Garside (Residence Abroad Tutor and Hebrew specialist Mrs Tuğgen Collard (Turkish specialist)

0161 275 3175

eva-maria.broomer

0161 275 8120

francesca.billiani

0161 275 3195 0161 306 1819

peter.cave aya.homei

0161 275 3067

sophie.garside

0161 275 8595

tuggen.collard

44

Name

Email (@manchester.ac.uk)

Phone

Dr Dalia Mostafa (Arabic specialist) Dr Siavash Rafiee Rad (Persian specialist) Russian and Dr Lynne Attwood (Residence Abroad Tutor) East European Dr Attwood is assisted by Studies Dr Ewa Ochman Dr Parvathi Kumaraswami (Erasmus / Latin American Spanish, exchanges, ELAs and work Portuguese placements) and Latin American Prof. Hilary Owen (Portugal Studies and Brazil)

0161 275 3068

dalia.s.mostafa

0161 275 8595

siavash.rafieerad

0161 275 3133

lynne.attwood

0161 275 3291

ewa.ochman

0161 275 3046

parvathi.kumaraswami

0161 275 3687

hilary.owen

Undergraduate Programme Administrators Contact for: enquiries about final year course options etc.

Chinese and Japanese Studies French Studies German Studies Italian Studies Master of Modern Languages Residence Abroad Assistant Middle Eastern Studies Russian and East European Studies Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American Studies European Studies MLBM

Email (@manchester.ac.uk)

Name

Phone

Jonathan Powell

0161 275 3139

jonathan.powell-3

Gill Worrall

0161 275 3209

gill.worrall

Wendy Howat

0161 275 3182

wendy.howat

Rachel Corrigan

0161 306 1727

rachel.corrigan

Jonathan Powell

0161 275 3139

jonathan.powell-3

Louise Steiger

0161 275 3648

louise.steiger

Gillian Woodward

0161 275 3595

gillian.woodward

Laura Berisford

0161 275 8309

laura.berisford

Nicholas Prideaux

0161 275 3183

nicholas.prideaux

Wendy Howat

0161 275 3182

wendy.howat

Gillian Woodward

0161 275 3595

gillian.woodward

45

Appendix 3: Residence Abroad Checklists Checklist for Study Abroad Before You Go: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Attend Briefing Meetings Research potential universities Submit Declaration of Intent Form (n/a to MES and Russian) Receive host university place allocation from your Residence Abroad Tutor/ Erasmus Coordinator Apply to host university Research accommodation options (apply for university accommodation if this is your preference) Attend Pre-Departure Briefings Complete and submit Erasmus Contract to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus only) by 31 May Complete and submit Confirmation of Plans (“yellow”) form to the Residence Abroad Coordinator by 30 April

During Your Time Abroad: 1. Complete and submit Erasmus Learning Agreement form(s) (see instructions on Blackboard) if you are on an Erasmus Study exchange (email Residence Abroad Tutor for approval of course choices for non-Erasmus study) 2. Complete and submit relevant questionnaires and Learning Log tasks (see instructions on Blackboard) 3. Attend all relevant lectures, seminars and examinations 4. Answer questions from Manchester students considering study abroad 5. Get your Erasmus Certificate of Attendance signed and submit it to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus only) 6. Complete your Erasmus Report and submit it to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus only) 7. Request your Transcript of Results When You’re Back: 1. Submit Transcript of Results to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 2. Make the effort to welcome incoming exchange students from our partner universities 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering study abroad 4. Make yourself available to help at briefing meetings and the International Programmes Office’s Pre-Departure Briefings to tell other students about your experiences abroad

46

Checklist for Work Abroad Before You Go: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Attend Briefing Meetings Prepare CV and covering letter Research and apply to potential employers Submit Declaration of Intent Form Seek approval for placement from Work Placement Coordinator using Work Placement Approval form 6. Complete Work Training Agreement form (see Blackboard for instructions and proforma) and submit completed copy to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 7. Research accommodation options 8. Attend Pre-Departure Briefings 9. Complete and submit Erasmus Contract to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus only) 10. Complete and submit Confirmation of Plans (“yellow”) form to the Residence Abroad Coordinator (by 30 April) During Your Time Abroad: 1. Complete and submit relevant questionnaires and Learning Log tasks (see instructions on Blackboard) 2. Answer questions from Manchester students considering work abroad 3. Get your Erasmus Certificate of Attendance signed and submit it to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus only) 4. Complete your Erasmus Report and submit it to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus only) 5. Request Transcript of Work When You’re Back: 1. Submit Transcript of Work to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 2. Make the effort to welcome incoming exchange students from our partner universities 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering work abroad 4. Make yourself available to help at briefing meetings and the International Programmes Office’s Pre-Departure Briefings to tell other students about your experiences abroad

Checklist for British Council ELA Before You Go: 1. Attend Briefing Meetings 2. Request reference from Academic Adviser 3. Submit completed application form to Residence Abroad Coordinator by deadline specified 4. Submit Declaration of Intent Form 5. Attend Pre-Departure Briefings 6. Research accommodation options 47

7. Complete and submit Erasmus Contract to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus eligible ELAs only) 8. Complete and submit Confirmation of Plans (“yellow”) form to the Residence Abroad Coordinator (by 30 April) 9. Receive school allocation from British Council 10. Make contact with host school(s) 11. Complete Work Training Agreement form During Your Time Abroad: 1. Complete and submit relevant questionnaires and Learning Log tasks (see instructions on Blackboard) 2. Answer questions from Manchester students considering British Council ELA scheme 3. Submit Erasmus Report and Erasmus Certificate of Attendance to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus eligible ELAs only) 4. Request Transcript of Work from your host school(s) When You’re Back: 1. Submit Transcript of Work to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 2. Make the effort to welcome incoming exchange students from our partner universities 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering the British Council ELA scheme 4. Make yourself available to help at briefing meetings and the International Programmes Office’s Pre-Departure Briefings to tell other students about your experiences abroad

Checklist for 8 Week Vacation Period Study Abroad Before You Go: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Attend Briefing Meetings Research potential language courses Submit Declaration of Intent Form Submit Vacation Residence Abroad Form Pay for language course Research accommodation options Attend Pre-Departure Briefings Complete and submit Confirmation of Plans (“yellow”) form to theResidence Abroad Coordinator (by 30 April)

During Your Time Abroad: 1. Complete and submit relevant questionnaires (see instructions on Blackboard) 2. Attend all classes and examinations 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering vacation study abroad

48

When You’re Back: 1. Make the effort to welcome incoming exchange students from our partner universities 2. Submit course certificate/ transcript of results to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering study abroad 4. Make yourself available to help at briefing meetings and the International Programmes Office’s Pre-Departure Briefings to tell other students about your experiences abroad

Checklist for 8 Week Vacation Period Work Abroad Before You Go: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Attend Briefing Meetings Prepare CV and covering letter Research and apply to potential employers Submit Declaration of Intent Form Seek approval for placement from Work Placement Coordinator using the Work Placement Approval form 6. Submit Vacation Residence Abroad Form 7. Complete Work Training Agreement form (see Blackboard for instructions and proforma) and submit completed copy to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 8. Research accommodation options 9. Attend Pre-Departure Briefings 10. Complete and submit Erasmus Contract to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus eligible work placements only) 11. Complete and submit Confirmation of Plans (“yellow”) form to the Residence Abroad Coordinator (by 30 April) During Your Time Abroad: 1. Complete and submit relevant questionnaires (see instructions on Blackboard) 2. Answer questions from Manchester students considering work abroad 3. Submit Erasmus Report and Erasmus Certificate of Attendance to the International Programmes Office (Erasmus eligible work placements only) When You’re Back:

1. Submit Transcript of Work to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 2. Make the effort to welcome incoming exchange students from our partner universities 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering work abroad 4. Make yourself available to help at briefing meetings and the International Programmes Office’s Pre-Departure Briefings to tell other students about your experiences abroad

49

Checklist for 8 Week Dissertation Research Abroad Before You Go: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Attend Briefing Meetings Identify area of research Identify provisional dissertation supervisor Submit Declaration of Intent Form Agree research plan with provisional dissertation supervisor Submit Vacation Residence Abroad Form Research accommodation options Attend Pre-Departure Briefings Complete and submit Confirmation of Plans (“yellow”) form to the Residence Abroad Coordinator (by 30 April)

During Your Time Abroad: 1. Complete the research tasks set out in the research plan, consulting your proposed dissertation supervisor if necessary 2. Complete and submit relevant questionnaires (see instructions on Blackboard) 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering dissertation research abroad When You’re Back: 1. Make the effort to welcome incoming exchange students from our partner universities 2. Present evidence of completion of the agreed research tasks to your provisional dissertation supervisor, so that s/he can confirm fulfilment of the requirements to the Residence Abroad Coordinator 3. Answer questions from Manchester students considering dissertation research abroad 4. Make yourself available to help at briefing meetings and the International Programmes Office’s Pre-Departure Briefings to tell other students about your experiences abroad

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Appendix 4: EU Work Comparison Table for Legal Requirements Please note that this table is provided for guidance only as many of the stipulations below do not apply to placement students. Country Belgium

Working Hours Maximum daily working hours = 8 hours per day

Rest Periods Minimum daily rest period between work = 11 consecutive hours

Annual Leave Minimum of 20 days per year

Written Terms No requirement for written contract terms. However, a couple of the exceptions are fixedterm contracts and student contracts Working on a Sunday and public holidays is only allowed in a few limited cases

France

Maximum weekly working hours = 38 hours per week

Minimum weekly rest period in each 7 day period = 1.5 days (includes the 11 hour daily rest period)

Plus 10 public holidays per year

Maximum daily working hours = 10 hours per day

Minimum daily rest period between work = 11 consecutive hours

Minimum of 5 weeks per year

No requirement for full written contract but employer must supply employee with a written statement of the essential terms. Also written contract is necessary for, amongst other things, fixed term contracts

Germany

Maximum weekly working hours = 48 hours

Minimum weekly rest period in each 7 day period = 35 consecutive hours (must include Sunday and includes the 11 hour daily rest period)

Plus 10 public holidays per year

Maximum daily working hours = 8 hours per day

Minimum daily rest period between work = 11 consecutive hours

Minimum of 24 working days per year if work a 6 day week

Maximum weekly working time = 6 days per week (48 hours)

Minimum weekly rest period in each 7 day period = 1.5 days (includes the 11 hour daily rest period)

Employment terms must be documented in writing

Annual leave reduces proportionally for each day worked less than 6 days per week e.g. for a 5 day week minimum annual leave will be 20 working days per year Plus between 9 - 13 public holidays per year depending on which state working in

Spain

Maximum daily working hours = 9 hours per day

Maximum weekly working hours = 40 hours per week

Minimum daily rest period between work = 12 hours

Minimum of 30 calendar days per year

Minimum weekly rest period in each 7 day period = 1.5 days (includes the 11 hour daily rest period)

Plus 14 public holidays per year

Temporary contracts lasting more than 4 weeks must be in writing. If no written contract employees must be provided with written particulars of employment such as name of company, date on which employment begins, remuneration, place of work, hours of work, holiday and holiday pay entitlement

51

Appendix 5: Extract from 2003 Working Time Directive (DIRECTIVE 2003/88/EC) Every member of the European Community must comply with and implement the 2003 Working Time Directive into their national legislation. Member States are still entitled to apply or introduce laws, regulations or administrative provisions more favourable to the protection of the safety and health of workers or to facilitate or permit the application of collective agreements or agreements concluded between the two sides of industry which are more favourable to the protection of the safety and health of workers. 1.

Daily Rest

Every worker is entitled to a minimum daily rest period of 11 consecutive hours per 24hour period. 2.

Breaks

If the working day is longer than six hours, every worker is entitled to a rest break, the details of which, including duration and the terms on which it is granted, shall be laid down by national legislation. 3.

Weekly Rest Period

Every worker is entitled to a minimum uninterrupted rest period of 24 hours plus the 11 hours' daily rest period in each seven-day period e.g. 1.5 days rest. 4.

Maximum Weekly Working Time

The average working time for each seven-day period, including overtime, must not exceed 48 hours. 5.

Annual Leave

Every worker is entitled to paid annual leave of at least four weeks in accordance with the conditions for entitlement to, and granting of, such leave laid down by national legislation and/or practice. The minimum period of paid annual leave may not be replaced by an allowance in lieu, except where the employment relationship is terminated.

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Appendix 6: Case Studies Case Study 1 John would love to spend his French year abroad in an office based environment to give him some vital skills for the ‘real world’. However, he doesn’t have any family contacts to help him out. He is certain that he would only be interested in studying abroad if he can’t secure a placement. He is also a little unsure as to whether he would be able to afford to work abroad. John attends the briefing meetings for study, work and the British Council’s ELA scheme before plotting the following plan of action: he will heed the advice provided at work placement meetings and start work on honing his CV and speculative covering letter. He decides that the ELA scheme isn’t for him as, although it is reasonably well paid and secure, it isn’t office based. John has to send off around 100 applications to companies he has decided to target himself and companies where Manchester students have previously worked. His tenacity pays off: in April he lands several telephone interviews and he is offered a receptionist job in a small media company in Paris. He works out that if he is ultra careful he will be able to live on his Student Loan and Erasmus Work grant.

Case Study 2 Paula is studying as an exchange student in Mexico and at first having a great time studying and socialising. However, mid-way through her first semester, everything starts to look gloomy to her, she doesn’t feel like socialising any more, loses her appetite and can’t sleep properly. She really is struggling to attend lectures and sometimes she doesn’t even feel able to leave her room. Exams are coming up and she realises that she has missed so many classes that she probably won’t pass them, so she makes contact with the Residence Abroad Coordinator (RAC) to ask what she should do. The RAC is sympathetic because she realises that Paula is probably suffering from depression and therefore ill. She makes it clear that Paula’s health is of paramount importance and explains that the University wouldn’t want her to stay on unless she was well enough to do so. She also advises Paula to visit a doctor and make use of the counselling service at her host university. The counselling helps to a certain extent but the medication prescribed by the doctor is having some very unpleasant side-effects, making her anxious to return home to her family and friends as soon as possible. The RAC explains that Paula can be excused part of her period of residence abroad on health grounds, if she provides a doctor’s certificate. Paula does this on her return to the UK, but she remains registered as a student at Manchester for the rest of the academic year, taking a Tandem course unit, sitting in on some classes, making use of the Language Centre and setting up an informal language exchange with a Spanish Erasmus student. That way, she feels she is still well prepared for her final year, even if she didn’t spend a full year abroad.

Appendix 7: Further Reading It is recommended that you also purchase a travel guide for the country/city you will be visiting. Public libraries are a good source for this kind of material. For example, a simple keyword search on the online catalogue for Manchester Central Reference Library (www.manchester.gov.uk/libraries ) brings up many titles. Of course, the internet also features a wealth of this kind of information, and a starting point for many of you might be www.lonelyplanet.com/ and www.roughguides.com/ Guides to Living, Studying and Working Abroad by Country (many of the books listed below are available for reference from the Residence Abroad Office (Samuel Alexander S3.7) and/or the Careers and International Programmes Libraries (both in the Atrium, First Floor University Place): General Study

Barron, Tom. Get Set for Study Abroad (Get Set for University) (Edinburgh University Press, 2006) Lidstone, Anna and Caroline Rueckert, The Study Abroad Handbook (Palgrave Macmillan, 2007)

General Work

Clayton, Nick. Guardian Guide to Working Abroad (A&C Black Business Information and Development, 2009) th

Griffith, Susan. Work Your Way Around the World, 15 edn (Vacation Work, 2011) th

Pybus, Victoria. Directory of International Voluntary Work, 8 edn (Vacation Work, 2003) st

Reuvid, Jonathan. Working Abroad: The Complete Guide to Overseas Employment, 31 edn (Kogan Page, 2010) th

Vacation Work. Summer Jobs Worldwide 2009, 40 edn (Vacation Work, 2009) Argentina

Hamwee, Robert. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture Argentina (Kuperard, 2005)

Belgium

Blyth, Derek. Live & Work in Brussels: The most accurate, practical and comprehensive guide to living and working in Brussels (Crimson, 2007)

Chile

Perrone, Caterina. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture Chile by Culture Smart (Kuperard, 2007)

China

Hakwan, Lau and Jocelyn Kan. Live and Work in China , 2 2007)

nd

edn (Crimson Publishing,

Mason, Caroline and Geoffrey Murray. Simple Guide to Customs and Etiquette in China th (Simple Guides),4 edn (Kuperard, 2004) nd

Strother, Barbara and Stuart Strother. Moon Living Abroad in China, 2 edn (Avalon Travel Publishing, 2009) Cuba

MacDonald, Mandy. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture Cuba by Culture Smart (Kuperard, 2006)

Egypt

Zayan, Jailan. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture Egypt by Culture Smart, 2 edn (Kuperard, 2013)

France

Cousins, Russell, Ron Hallmark and Ian Pickup. Studying and Working in France: Student nd Guide (Studying and Working), 2 edn (Manchester University Press, 2007)

nd

Chrisman, John and Audrey Queyreyre. Study Abroad Paris: Your Complete Guide to an Amazing Study Abroad Experience (Angevin LLC, 2006) Hart, Alan. Going to Live in France: Comprehensive, Up-to-date, Practical Information rd About Everyday Life, 3 edn (How To Books, 1998) Larner, Monica. France (Working & Living), 2

nd

edn (Cadogan Guides, 2007)

54

rd

Pybus, Victoria. Live and Work in France (Live and Work), 3 edn (Vacation Work, 1998) Germany

James, Peter and David Kaufman. Studying and Working in Germany (Manchester University Press, 2002) Wilson, Pamela. Living and Working in Germany (Survival Books, 2011)

Iran

Williams, Stuart. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture Iran by Culture Smart (Kuperard, 2010)

Italy

Chesters, Graeme. Living and Working in Italy, 3 edn (Survival Books, 2007)

rd

Larner, Monica and Travis Neighbor Ward. Living, Studying, and Working in Italy: nd Everything You Need to Know to Live La Dolce Vita, 2 edn (Holt McDougal, 2003) th

Pybus, Victoria. Live and Work in Italy, 4 edn (Vacation Work, 2005) Israel

Bregman, Ahron. Living and Working in Israel: How to Prepare for a Successful Long-term Stay (How To Books, 1996) Geri, Jeffrey. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture Israel (Kuperard, 2010)

Japan

Kanagy, Ruthy. Moon Living Abroad in Japan (Adapter Kit) (Avalon Travel Publishing, 2007) Norbury, Paul. Culture Smart! The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture(Japan) (Kuperard, 2011) Roberts, David and Elisabeth Roberts. Live and Work in Japan, 2 2003)

nd

edn (Vacation Work,

Peru

Forrest, John and Julia Porturas. The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture (Peru), 2 edn (Kuperard, 2012)

Portugal

Hobbs, Guy. Live and Work in Portugal (Vacation Work, 2005)

Russia

Packer, Jonathan. Live and Work in Russia and Eastern Europe (Vacation Work, 1998)

nd

King, Anna. Russia - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture (Kuperard, 2010) Spain

Hobbs, Guy. Live & Work in Spain: The most accurate, practical and comprehensive guide nd to living in Spain, 2 edn (Crimson Publishing, 2008)

Turkey

Francis, Huw. Living and Working in Turkey: A Thorough, Comprehensive and Reliable Guide for Short or Long-term Visitors (How To Books Ltd, 2008)

55

Appendix 8: Sample Yellow Form

School of Arts, Languages and Cultures CONFIRMATION OF RESIDENCE ABROAD PLANS 2014-2015 Completed and signed forms must be submitted as soon as possible and in any case no later than 30 April 2014 to: Shàdy Nowrouz, Residence Abroad Coordinator, Room S3.7, Samuel Alexander Building, School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL. Residence Abroad Tutor Approval: The following activities are automatically approved: Work under the British Council/Comenius ELA schemes and study abroad via the Erasmus Study programme or at partner institutions in China, Japan, Latin America, the Middle East or Russia (through RLUS). Please note that for all other activities the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor(s) must sign this form to confirm their approval of your plans for the period of residence abroad before you hand it in to the Residence Abroad Coordinator. Do not delay seeking approval – members of staff may not be available if you leave it too late. Changes to the plans outlined on this form can normally NOT be made. Students are therefore urged to research their choices carefully in advance, paying particular attention to the level of exposure to the target language.

Language: Residence Abroad Tutor Name: Residence Abroad Tutor Signature: Language: Residence Abroad Tutor Name: Residence Abroad Tutor Signature:

Personal Details: Student Name: Student ID Number: Degree Programme: Local Education Authority (if applicable): Alternative email address (not your University email address):

56

Plans: Please use the table below to provide your confirmed residence abroad plans. Those students who are studying more than one language to degree level must provide as much detail as possible of their plans for both languages (students due to complete a period of vacation residence abroad in summer 2015 need only provide a rough idea of their plans at this stage). It is your responsibility to ensure that your activities do not clash. Work placement students must also enclose a copy of their offer letter/email/contract and a fully completed and signed Erasmus or Non-Erasmus Work Training Agreement (instructions and forms available via Blackboard). ELAs have special dispensation to submit their Training Agreements once they are in contact with their host school(s).

Activity Erasmus Study/Erasmus Work/Non-Erasmus Study/ Non-Erasmus Work/ ELA ….) 1.

2.

3.

Country

Start and end dates (e.g. 1/9/14 - 6/6/15)

Details Use this space to provide the name and contact details for your host university/language school/employer.

Is your period abroad a compulsory part of your degree programme? circle as appropriate: Yes / No

Please

Additional Support Needs Declaration: Additional support needs (as a result of a disability / impairment / other medical condition / specific learning difficulty): In order that we can offer you appropriate additional support during the application process and while you are abroad you should declare any disability or medical condition (including mental health conditions). The Disability Support Office (DSO) and School of Arts, Languages and Cultures can help you investigate the support systems in place abroad and any additional funding you may be entitled to. Please tick the appropriate box:



I do not have any additional support needs Yes, I do have additional support needs I do not wish to answer

If you answered ‘Yes’, are you registered with the DSO? Please circle as appropriate:

Yes / No

Dependants/carers/partners: 1)

Do you have any dependants (e.g. children)? Please circle as appropriate:

Yes / No

If you answered ‘Yes’, do you intend to take your dependant(s) abroad with you? Please circle as appropriate:

2)

Yes / No

Are you a carer responsible for looking after a relative in the UK? Please circle as appropriate:

Yes / No

If you answered ‘Yes’, do you intend to take your relative abroad with you? Please circle as appropriate:

3)

Yes / No

Do you plan to travel abroad with a partner? Please circle as appropriate:

Yes / No

General Residence Abroad Declaration: Please tick the boxes below to confirm your understanding of, and agreement to, the points listed before signing the student signature box: I am aware that any changes to plans can only be made in exceptional circumstances and with prior approval from the relevant Residence Abroad Tutor, and that changes due to lack of exposure to the target language will only be considered where this lack of exposure was wholly unforeseeable. I have read and understood the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures Residence Abroad Handbook 2014-15, the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook 2014-15 and relevant sections of the Residence Abroad Blackboard site. I understand that the University provides students with travel and emergency medical insurance but that: a) it is essential that I obtain and carry a European Health Insurance card (EHIC) when travelling in relevant European countries. b) additional private healthcare cover is recommended in certain countries and is the responsibility of the individual student. I have made my Residence Abroad Tutor and/or the Residence Abroad Coordinator aware of any special circumstances that could have an impact on my period of residence abroad. I understand that I must return to Manchester for any re-sit exams in late August or early September, even if I have already commenced a residence abroad activity. I understand that I will be required to provide full and frank feedback on my residence abroad experiences upon my return to Manchester and that I will be expected to answer questions from students preparing for their period of residence abroad.  I understand that my University email address will be shared with University of Manchester students who are undertaking residence abroad in the same country / area and those students who are preparing for a period of residence abroad.  I will check my University email address regularly (this will serve as the main method of communication) and provide prompt responses to emails. I understand the importance of generally maintaining communication with the Residence Abroad Coordinator and relevant Residence Abroad Tutor(s).  I understand that the completion of Learning Log questionnaires is a residence abroad requirement.  I understand that the residence abroad requirements dictate that I must pass the examinations at my host institution (relevant to study abroad students and students on language courses only).  I have completed a health and safety risk assessment of my residence abroad activities (see Study and Work Abroad Handbook Appendix).  I have completed the Health Needs Self-Assessment Checklist (see Study and Work Abroad Handbook Appendix).  I understand that failure to fulfil the School’s residence abroad requirements will lead to the withholding of some or all of the credits for the period of residence abroad.  I understand that it is compulsory that I attend the School’s Residence Abroad Requirements Briefing on Thursday 14 March at 5.00 – 6.00, G51, Chemistry Building, and the University’s ‘It Won’t Happen to Me’ Briefing on Wednesday 24 April at 2.00 – 3.00, Theatre 1, Crawford House OR on Thursday 2 May, 5.00 – 6.00, Theatre A, Roscoe Building, and that it is strongly recommended that I attend all other meetings organised for my choice of activity / destination [NB. Dates and times from 2013]  I understand that I must devote the necessary time and effort to preparing for my residence abroad and that this will include undertaking independent research, making my own travel arrangements, obtaining relevant immigration documents and adhering to deadlines.  I understand that the University of Manchester reserves the right to withdraw me from the period of residence abroad due to my performance in examinations or if my conduct gives cause for concern.  I have researched the costs involved in undertaking my chosen residence abroad activities and am confident that I can cover any extra expense involved. I understand that I may be required to provide evidence of sufficient funding in order to obtain a visa / immigration approval for certain countries.  I understand that should I fail to obtain a visa or be unable to complete the period of residence abroad for any other reason I will not be entitled to a reimbursement of costs and will be required to re-pay any additional funding I may have received. Student signature: Date:

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Appendix 9: Frequently Asked Questions 1.

Are there any grants available from the University to support me during my period of residence abroad?

Please see Chapter 6 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook. You’ll find information on LEA and Student Loans funding there too. 2.

Do I have to pay fees to the University of Manchester while I’m abroad?

If you are an international student, then you will have to pay 50% of your usual tuition fee. Home/EU students, though, will be charged a maximum of £1,350. Depending on the overall household income, you may end up paying less or nothing at all. Please see Section 6.1 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook for details. 3.

How do I get a place at a university?

Please see pp. 15-17 of this handbook for information on partner universities and how to secure a place at one of them. 4.

How long have I got until I have to make a final decision?

That depends on where you are going and the kind of activity that you are interested in. Please see pp. 18f. of this handbook for details of the various deadlines. 5.

Does the University help us to find accommodation?

As in Manchester, accommodation is ultimately YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. However, we do provide some guidance notes (see Chapter 7 of the University’s Study and Work Abroad Handbook). 6.

I am struggling to cope with my time abroad, what should I do?

You should let your Residence Abroad Tutor / the Residence Abroad Coordinator know as soon as possible. They will be happy to help, advise and encourage you. If you need to change what you are currently doing abroad or need to come home early, they will outline the options that are open to you. Please don’t act on your own initiative (unless you are in immediate danger). Things will be easier for you if you let us help you. Besides, you could get into trouble if you make new arrangements without having our permission first. (See sections 1.6 and 1.7 in Appendix 1 of this handbook.) 7.

Do I have to pass my exams at my host institution?

Yes, you are required to pass your exams at your host institution. If you fail to do so, you will have to explain the reasons. Provided these are acceptable (i.e. not purely a matter of negligence on your part), you will be required to submit alternative evidence that you have engaged with the relevant course (e.g. lecture and revision notes, handouts, essays, homework). In cases where no good reasons for exam failure can be given and/or the alternative evidence is unsatisfactory, some of the residence abroad credits will be withheld. (See section 1.7 in Appendix 1 of this handbook.)

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Appendix 10: Self Assessment Checklist / Health Needs Assessment

Health and Safety: Study/Work Placements Abroad This self assessment checklist is a prompt for YOU to consider whether you need to seek additional medical advice. You do NOT need to return the form to your department or any other office but should simply use it to consider whether you need to seek further advice in relation to any particular issue. The University of Manchester is concerned for your health safety and welfare and also has a legal responsibility to ensure (as far as reasonably practicable) your health and safety not only whilst attending university but also when you are undertaking courses of study and/or work in the UK and abroad. You are strongly recommended to complete the following self assessment checklist. The Nature of the Visit/Situation etc

Yes



Will you be working/studying/travelling in an area which is NOT within reasonable access (e.g. 6-12 hours) of specialist medical help?



Does the work/study/travel require a high standard of physical fitness or exposure to specific hazards eg altitude?



Is it possible that further additional vaccinations will be required beyond standard UK vaccinations as listed below: BCG Polio Tetanus and Diphtheria Measles Mumps and Rubella Meningitis C

No

For your safety it is important that you are up to date with this schedule and you will be able to check this with your General Practitioner. http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home.aspx is a valuable source of advice on vaccination requirements for each country. Your Health 

Do you need to take regular medication to control a medical condition e.g. epilepsy, diabetes or other?



Do you suffer from any serious allergic condition?



Have you a past history or do you indeed currently suffer from a mental health problem?



Have you suffered from any medical condition requiring specialist opinion/hospital admission/surgery within the last six months?

Yes

No

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If having completed the questionnaire you have answered ‘yes’ to any of the questions then you should seek further advice (which may include general medical information, vaccinations, supply of a travel medicine pack etc). Please make an appointment with Occupational Health based in Waterloo Place, 182/184 Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9GP,  number 0161 275 2858 or for North Campus, Occupational Health based in The Mill, Sackville Street, Manchester M60 1QD  0161 306 4007. Please print off and complete the “Field Trip Health Declaration Form” document available on The University Health and Safety web site (see below for access details) and bring the completed form together with the self assessment checklist with you to your appointment. It will also be useful to have details of your planned destination, work activities and dates and details of previous vaccinations (if available) in order to ensure that the advice provided is appropriate to your needs. University of Manchester: Travel Information, Forms etc 

Field Trip Health Declaration Form http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/healthandsafety/forms.htm



Travel Advice for Staff and Students (Hard copies available) http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/healthandsafety/CoPs&Guidance.htm (under T)

Useful Websites http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk - public access website provided by the NHS with general information for those travelling abroad from the UK. Provides information on vaccinations etc. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice - Foreign & Commonwealth Office travel advice. A key reference. Includes a section on ‘Staying safe and healthy abroad’.

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