Accessibility
This information is provided to assist you in identifying possible accessibility barriers and preparing for an accessible educational experience with SIT Study Abroad. You should be aware that while in-country conditions and resources vary by site, every effort is made to work collaboratively with qualified individuals to facilitate disability-related accommodation. Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact SIT Disability Services at [email protected] for additional information related to access abroad and to discuss possible accommodations.
Academics
During the coursework phase of the program, you will generally be in class five to six days per week for six to eight hours per day. Breaks are provided between classes.
Learning is typically assessed through take-home assignments, in-class assignments, written assignments/exams, oral presentations/exams, individual assignments, group assignments, and in-class quizzes/exams. Course readings and in-class materials are typically available in a digital format.
If you have questions about alternate format materials, testing accommodations, or other academic accommodations, you are encouraged to contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible.
Program Center
The SIT program office’s two entrances are accessed by two wide steps. The program office, meeting space, study areas, and restrooms are located on the first level. Interior pathways/hallways measure at least 32 in. (82 cm.) wide. The restrooms have running water and a wide stall. The program site has a refrigerator, sink, fans, and solar back-up but no air conditioning or heat. Many lectures and discussions take place at program partner sites or in the field.
Activities/Excursions
Many of the program excursions will take you directly into the water to explore marine habitats and coastal ecology. Guided snorkeling excursions are mandatory. During the safari excursion (over four weeks), you will be sleeping in a tent. A pair of comfortable, rubber-soled, waterproof shoes are recommended. You can expect to stand, walk, and carry your backpack for prolonged periods of time. Program excursions may occasionally vary to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities.
Housing
Each program’s homestay coordinator will be responsible for placing students in homestays. These placements are made based, first, on health concerns, including any allergies or dietary needs, to the extent possible. The physical accessibility of homestay options is currently limited. Most homestay are located on multiple floors in historical buildings with long staircases. Homestays typically do not offer regular electricity or indoor plumbing. If you have questions about homestay accessibility, you are encouraged to contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible.
Dietary Needs
A wide variety of vegetables are available, so it may be possible to follow a vegetarian diet. Accommodating a vegan diet is more difficult.
SIT Study Abroad works with students, program staff, homestay families, home colleges and universities, and others to accommodate student dietary needs whenever possible. For more information on dietary needs and dietary preferences, please review the Student Support section of the Student Health, Safety, and Support web page.
Transportation
Students typically travel between their primary homestay, classes, and/or placement sites by walking and by bus. Buses are not equipped with lifts or ramps nor is there room to stand and stretch. The general routes of Zanzibar and Pemba are dusty and uneven and have limited accessibility. Walking, bus, boat, minivan, Land Rover, and small planes are modes of transportation used for program excursions.
Technology
You are advised to bring your own academic technology, including laptop, thumb drives, recording device, and assistive technology. You are responsible for securing all personal items, including technology. The program has a computer for word processing and a printer, copier, and scanner. It is recommended that you fully insure your electronic property against loss or theft. If you have questions about assistive technology, note-taking accommodations, or other academic accommodations, you are encouraged to contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible.
Health Resources
Private and public medical facilities are available in urban areas. Payment for medical services is covered by your health insurance if the provider is notified prior to or during the medical service. Once admitted, you are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns about accessing health services or medication while abroad during the health review process. Read more about the health review process and the summary of benefits for student health insurance.
Requesting Disability-Related Accommodations
To request disability-related accommodations once admitted, your should contact the Office of Disability Services. For more information about the accommodation process, documentation guidelines, and a link to the accommodation request form, please visit the Office of Disability Services website.
Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact Disability Services at [email protected] or 802 258-3390 as early as possible for information and support.
Additional Support Resources
MIUSA (Mobility International USA) is a cross-disability organization serving those with cognitive, hearing, learning, mental health, physical, systemic, vision, and other disabilities. It offers numerous resources for persons with disabilities who wish to study abroad and/or engage in international development opportunities.
Abroad with Disabilities (AWD) is a Michigan nonprofit organization founded in 2015 with the goal of promoting the belief that persons with disabilities can and should go abroad. AWD works diligently to empower clients to pursue study, work, volunteer, and/or internship opportunities outside of the United States by creating dialogue, sharing resources, and spreading awareness.