In an AFS program, students do more than travel — they go on a learning journey that helps them develop as active
global citizens. The AFS Student Learning Journey (SLJ) combines online and in-person learning at every step of an
AFS 18- mobility program: before travel, while abroad, and upon return. AFS has developed this curriculum in
collaboration with experts in Global Citizenship Education who helped develop the AFS Framework for Active
Global Citizenship, which outlines the core educational principles and learning outcomes that guide the development
and implementation of all AFS programs.
Before an AFS Program Starts: Time to Discover
Online, Globally
As they prepare for their AFS program, students become part of a global community and meet like-minded and
diverse people before even travelling. Each student is enrolled in an international online course that
complements the local orientation sessions delivered in the sending country.
The AFS SLJ Online Discover Course is designed to provide students with the initial knowledge, coping
strategies and skills needed to have a meaningful intercultural experience and develop as active global citizens.
Once students complete all Discover course online content modules, they receive a certificate of completion
issued by AFS International indicating the knowledge and skills developed.
Discover Course Content - about 3 hours total to complete
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Module 1: Active Global Citizenship
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Module 2: Understanding Culture, Understanding Ourselves
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Module 3: Stereotypes & Generalizations
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Module 4: A Tool for Suspending Judgment
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Module 5: Exploring Different Perspectives
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Module 6: Introduction to Sustainable Development
In addition to the content modules taken asynchronously, on students' own time, they are also invited to join
three 90-minute live online sessions: Facilitated Dialogue Session #1, and Facilitated Dialogue Session #2.
Trained AFS facilitators guide these sessions, which offer students a chance to review the content and connect
with their peers.
In-person, locally
Before they travel, students participate in a locally scheduled group Pre-Departure Orientation session led by
AFS staff and volunteers. This orientation gives them the knowledge, coping strategies, and skills needed for a
meaningful intercultural experience. It is also a great way to meet other AFSers before they go abroad.