A Multidisciplinary Program in Partnership with The COPE Foundation, Cork, Ireland

June 6 - July 18, 2008

~ Special Education ~ Psychology ~ Speech/Communication Disorders ~ Social Work ~
~ Child and Family Development ~ Adaptive P.E. ~ Physical Therapy ~ Recreation/Leisure ~
~ Occupational Therapy ~ Gerontology ~ Nursing ~ Music Therapy ~ etc.

Study Abroad Ireland is designed for students wanting an international experience that focuses on the delivery of educational and social services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in Ireland. Students from a wide range of disciplines with an interest in social, educational, vocational, recreational, and/or health services for persons with developmental disabilities will be recruited. Applicants with direct contact experience with adolescents and/or adults with disabilities are preferred. Both volunteer service hours and completion of 6 hours coursework will be required:

SPED 4800/6800: Cross-Cultural Perspectives in Developmental Disabilities: Ireland, and
SPED 4440/7440: Practicum Study Abroad in Ireland

Student Quotes

“The beautiful scenery, the Irish humor, and the welcome of the COPE Foundation clients and staff were just a few of the many things that made this study abroad so great. The experience was unforgettable!”

K.N. UGA, undergraduate Exercise Science (pre-Physical Therapy) major

“I loved the program. It was a fabulous experience. I loved my placement and honestly have nothing negative to say about it. All of the people I worked with were amazing. They encouraged me to try things I had never done, and they asked me for advice and to teach how to use various assessments and tools.”

and

“The Ireland Study Abroad Program provided an opportunity to put theories into practice, while traveling and experiencing a new culture.”

A.B. UGA Early Intervention doctoral student

“My study abroad experience in Ireland was amazing. Not only did I get unique work experience in my field, but also unforgettable memories from traveling throughout Europe. I would recommend it to anyone!”

B.S. St. Louis University undergraduate Speech and Language Therapy major

“Going on the Study Abroad to Cork, Ireland, gave me a new and widened perspective on the services, therapies, and recreational activities that could be applied to individuals with special needs in the United States. I came home with a better understanding of how to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities while getting to travel around Ireland and Europe on the weekends.”

K.W. UGA undergraduate Special Education major

Witnessing the continuum of services provided for a broad range of severities of disabilities in Ireland proved to be impressive and heart-warming in Ireland. The staff at the John Birmingham Center created an open learning environment for everyone involved. Every participant's contributions were honored and greatly appreciated.

H.S UGA graduate student, Special Education major

other quotes:

“I would not trade this experience for anything. Thank you for everything!”

“I have a whole new respect for people who work with challenging behaviors everyday!”

“The staff is so nice and friendly! I feel like part of the team.”

“I have learned how to be more patient and to slow down and enjoy the moment.”

“I was very uneasy at first being with adults, but now I hate to leave!”

“I feel much more comfortable working with the adult population now!”

“This 6 Weeks has been incredible! What amazing opportunities/people!
Best summer to date—definitely coming back to Ireland someday!