Study Abroad and Global Experiences

IT for International Business Travel (CGS 2038C)
1 credits

•  June 3 - June 10, 2024

Before reviewing this page or applying to this program, read the entire COVID-19 Statement.  If you have questions, please contact SAGE.  All information is subject to change.  Prices are an estimate only until flights are booked and could fluctuate.

Program Overview

Students will have a chance to compare and contrast different software applications that they will use in country when they go on the trip. Students will evaluate Microsoft Office 2019, which includes Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Access. In addition, students will use software and apps to create their cultural research paper on the host country. In addition, students will learn about different Instant Messaging and communication applications that can be used on their smart phones to be in contact with businesses and other organizations when in the Spain and the United States.

Students will have the opportunity to meet with local schools in Spain so they help teach 6 local students about Microsoft Office technology. Students will have to teach a lesson to locals on how to create and present a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint. In addition, students will have to show students the basic features of using a Word document. Lastly, students will have the chance to teach these students how to create a basic budget in Microsoft Excel. These skills will help Valencia students improve their teamwork, problem solving and communication skills while working in a different cultural environment.

Students will be investigating the differences between tablets and laptops that can be used during an international business trip. Students will conduct research and find out what the differences are in performance amongst the different hardware such as memory, CPU Speed, storage space, power supply, and other important hardware features. Students will also compare prices at different Internet sites as to meet the organizational budgets that they might see in the real world as if they were working for a company.

Students will also visit local technology companies to view how they are doing business in the Spain and utilizing both computer hardware, software and apps to enhance business. 

Course Description

This course explores the use of information technology in an international setting. Students will expand their cultural awareness during a Study Abroad Trip, while examining business uses of technology. While in a foreign country a lab component of the course requires students to use digital communication, including Internet access and telephone communication. This course requires the student to have a smart-phone or tablet

Things to Consider Before You Apply

• Familiarize yourself with the Spain travel risk outlook, including COVID-19 entry restrictions and levels.  Please visit the Department of State by clicking here and the CDC by clicking here to see more information.
  This program is open to students in good standing only.  Please see GPA requirements.
• This program has NO prerequisites required.
• Students are required to attend all pre-departure and re-entry class meetings.
• Students should expect to walk at least 10 miles per day, sometimes on uneven surfaces.  Bring comfortable walking shoes.
• Students will be traveling in the country via airplane, train, or bus. Packing light will be critical since the group will be moving around to different cities during the program.  Be prepared to transport your personal belongings during those transitions.
• If a student has dietary restrictions, he/she should be prepared with extra money for meals and snacks.  Dietary needs will be communicated beforehand but alternate meals may not be available due to travel arrangements, and students should plan accordingly.
• Daily breakfast and some additional meals will be included in the price.  All other snacks, meals, souvenirs/shopping, and structured free time activities will be the responsibility of the student.
• Students must acquire passports.  Passport fees, course tuition, and course materials are not included in the price.
• Students can expect to share room accommodations with students of the same gender with bathrooms shared.
• During free time, students must always be in a group of three or more for safety reasons.
• Students are not allowed to drink alcohol per SAGE and Student Development rules.
• It is important to understand that students will be acting as cultural ambassadors from the U.S. and representing Valencia positively to our foreign hosts.  Students will be expected to follow the Valencia Student Code of Conduct.

Funding Information