Professional Development Program to Singapore Orientation Notebook
July 2012 Professional Development Program for BWF Scholars
Table Of
Images used in this publication come from Microsoft Office’s images as well as from the Center’s staff.
Contents Thank You to Our Sponsors...4 Participant List...5 The Center for International Understanding...6 Teacher Study Abroad Programs...7 Program Purpose, Goals, and Phases...8 Itinerary...9 Flight Schedule...10 Emergency Contact Information...11 Why Singapore?...12 Map of Singapore...13 Reflection Tools...14 Responsible Photography...15 Tips for Travel...16 Safety and Health Tips...19 Packing Checklist...22 Packing Tips...23 Participant Health Insurance Abroad...24 Singapore Web Resources...26 Singapore Book Resources...28
Thank You! The 2012 Professional Development Program to Singapore is made possible with generous support from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund.
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Participant List Mr. Michael Amato, Mathematics Teacher, Buncombe County Schools Ms. Meghan Boutwell, Mathematics and Math Education Major, UNC-Asheville Dr. Alisa Chapman, Vice President for Academic and University Programs, UNC General Administration Mr. Josh Edwards, Science/Chemistry Teacher, Wake County Public Schools Mr. Aaron Foreman, Earth Science Teacher, Wake County Public Schools Mr. Adam Hartzell, Executive Director, Center for International Understanding Ms. Meredith Henderson, Senior Director of Programs, Center for International Understanding Ms. Jenny Holt, Science Teacher, Wakefield High School Mr. Justin Kingon, Science Teacher, Wake County Public Schools Ms. Jaimie Lea, Science Teacher, Alamance Burlington Schools Dr. Meg Moss, Department Chair, Assistant Professor, Coordinator 9-12 Mathematics Licensure, UNCAsheville Mr. Joshua Rosenberg, Science Teacher, Cleveland County Schools Ms. Megan Shaw, Science Teacher, Wendell Middle School Ms. Kristina Simmons, Biology, Earth/Environmental, Marine Science Teacher, Guilford County Schools
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Learning from the World, Serving North Carolina The Center for International Understanding is an educational organization promoting global competence and awareness among current and future leaders in North Carolina. Founded in 1979, the Center is working to make North Carolina one of the most globally engaged states in the nation. As globalization plays an ever-increasing role in the economy of North Carolina, our current and future leaders need to be globally competent and aware in order to succeed in a changing world. Through a series of international leadership programs focused on issues vital to North Carolina’s economy and work in K-12 schools, the Center seeks to prepare current and future leaders to engage with the world. The Center for International Understanding, along with 17 campuses and other educational organizations, is part of the University of North Carolina.
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TeacherStudy AbroadPrograms
Teachers Bring the World to N.C. Classrooms Since 1995, the Center for International Understanding has provided teacher study abroad programs to help educators bring the world to North Carolina classrooms. Teachers from all grade levels and all subject areas bring a global perspective to the classroom and ignite an interest in global cooperation and competition.
Through Our International Professional Development Opportunities: •
More than 370 K-12 teachers and administrators have studied abroad •
•
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12 different countries have been studied
More than 300 original global lesson plans have been implemented
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Program Purpose Singapore’s reliance on education has helped it emerge as a regional economic power and the nation has gained a reputation for building a strong teaching force and for developing leadership from within its education community. The July 2012 Professional Development Program to Singapore for BWF Scholars will focus on understanding Singapore’s approach to education and to developing educators.
Program Goals • Singapore students consistently rank near the top in international comparisons of performance in mathematics and science. Participants will explore Singapore’s approach to the teaching of math and science. • Singapore traditionally draws teacher education students from the top 10% of the secondary school graduating classes. Furthermore, Singapore has a strong tradition of teacher training that emphasizes providing teachers with pedagogical skills, instructional technology and practical experience. Participants will gain insight into pre-service teacher preparation and in-service professional development • Singapore has created a sophisticated approach to identifying and training future school leaders. Participants will learn about how Singapore’s future educational leaders are identified and trained.
Program Phases • • • •
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Orientation Workshop – May 25, 2012 Program in Singapore – July 20-29, 2012 Follow-Up Workshop – September 7, 2012 Final Evaluation Survey – July 2013
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Itinerary (July 20 - 30 2012) Friday, July 20, and Saturday, July 21, 2012 Travel from NC to Singapore Sunday, July 22, 2012 Arrive in Singapore Guided tour of Singapore including the Asian Civilizations Museum Group dinner Monday, July 23, 2012 – Overview of Education in Singapore Group Briefing Session Briefings at the Ministry of Education Visit to NUS (National University of Singapore) Tuesday, July 24, 2012 – Teacher Preparation Site visit to the National Institute of Education (NIE - Singapore’s teacher training institute) at Nanyang Technical University Group dinner Wednesday, July 25, 2012 – School Visits School Visits Debriefing Session Thursday, July 26, 2012 – School Visits Morning – Primary Schools Afternoon-Secondary Schools Friday, July 27, 2012 – School Visits Morning – Secondary schools Final Debriefing Session Group dinner Saturday, July 28, 2012 Free time for cultural visits in Singapore or possible optional day trip to Malaysia Sunday, July 29, and Monday, July 30, 2012 Travel to North Carolina
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Departure & Return Flight Schedule DEPARTURE - RALEIGH DATE 07/20/12 07/20/12
AIRLINE FLT.# FROM United 3581 Raleigh United 117 Newark
TO DEPART Newark 10:49AM Singapore 3:15PM
ARRIVAL 12:30PM 12:35AM (7/22/12)
DEPARTURE - CHARLOTTE DATE 07/20/12 07/20/12
AIRLINE FLT.# FROM United 4686 Charlotte United 117 Newark
TO DEPART Newark 9:10AM Singapore 3:15PM
ARRIVAL 11:00AM 12:35AM (7/22/12)
RETURN - RALEIGH DATE 07/29/12 07/29/12
AIRLINE FLT.# FROM TO United 116 Singapore Newark United 4532 Newark Raleigh
DEPART 5:15AM 7:49PM
ARRIVAL 1:55PM 9:31PM
DATE 07/29/12 07/29/12
RETURN - CHARLOTTE AIRLINE FLT.# FROM TO DEPART United 116 Singapore Newark 5:15AM United 4326 Newark Charlotte 3:26PM
ARRIVAL 1:55PM 5:31PM
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EmergencyContact Information DATES CITY ACCOMMODATION
July 20-21
In transit
July 22-28 Singapore Hilton Singapore 581 Orchard Road Singapore 238883 tel: 011 65 6737 2233 fax: 011 65 6732 2917 website: www.singapore.hilton.com July 29
In transit
Leaders: Meredith Henderson and Alisa Chapman Staff Blackberry in Singapore – 919-208-9438 Families may also contact: Cindy DeFoor, Development Director The Center for International Understanding 919-733-7746 (work) 919-779-9021 (home) or 919-801-0446 (cell) Note to families: Singapore is 12 hours ahead of NC. Please keep the time difference in mind when placing non-emergency calls.
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Why Singapore? Singapore is a modern day city-state and an economic powerhouse. Situated in Southeast Asia, just south of Malaysia, the country of over 4.5 million people serves as a model for urban planning. The Republic of Singapore, as an independent nation, was born in 1965. Today, less than 50 years later, the country that had no system of universal education in 1965 has one of the world’s best performing school systems and consistently ranks in the top two or three in terms of the performance of its students on international tests of science and mathematics. Singapore’s literacy ranking as measured by the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) is among the highest in the world • Singaporean students consistently rank among the top two or three nations in math and science based on their performance on the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) • A 2008 McKinsey & Company study, “How the World’s Best Performing School Systems Come Out on Top,” rated Singapore as the best performing school system, with an excellent teaching force • The IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook of 2007 ranked Singapore 1st for having an education system that best meets the needs of a competitive economy
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MapofSingapore
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ReflectionTools
Upon Your Return:
It is important to reread and review your journal When we participate in a global study program, we often take the after your return home. time to learn about the culture we will be visiting. However, it is also Continue to reflect on important to look at ourselves and what we bring to the experience. some of your experiences One of the key players in the experience is you. It is your eyes that will in Singapore and their see, your ears that will hear, and your personal experiences and history effect on your life in North that will help you to interpret what you see and hear. Carolina. Some additional questions that may be Although we will be meeting in large group debriefing sessions during helpful are: the course of the program in Singapore, a journal is a great tool to help you reflect on your experience on a day-to-day basis as well as upon • What did the your return home. experience of traveling to Singapore with this global study program mean to you? Before You Go: In Singapore: It is recommended that you begin While we are in Singapore, you your journal before leaving the can use your journal to record country. Reflect on your feelings your journey. Some things to think about traveling to Singapore, about are: your reasons for joining this study • Notes from presentations program, your expectations, and on questions you hope to have • Specific quotes answered. Below are some • Sounds, smells, sights, etc. questions to help you get started: that you are experiencing • Why are you taking this • Questions journey? • What are you anticipating most about the program in Singapore? • What are you concerned or anxious about? • What are your assumptions about Singapore, the Singaporean, and Singaporean education? How do you expect the country and the people you meet to look, sound, act, etc? • What are the key questions you would like to have answered in Singapore? 14
• Experiences outside the formal program agenda •
Dreams
•
Stories, poems, sketches
• Use your journal to collect mementos, such as pictures, postcards, etc., to share with students and faculty • Record commitments or intentions to act when you return home
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• What are some of the main ideas that you would like to convey to your family, friends and colleagues about Singapore now that you have been there? • How will this experience impact your professional practice?
• What are some initial ideas that you have for lesson plans/curriculum units based on your experiences? • What is the most important learning you derived from this experience? Bring your journal with you to the follow-up workshop. You may find that you want to refer to it as you begin the next stage of your action-planning.
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Responsible Photography Most participants on a travel seminar come with camera in hand, eager to photograph their experience for their own memories and to share with friends and family. Photos are a great way to document a travel seminar, but a camera can be a tricky tool to use well. How you use your camera reflects your level of respect for the local people and your long-term commitment to mutual understanding and responsible travel.
Guidelines for Taking Photos on a Travel Seminar: •
Ask Permission before you
take a photo, even if it is just a smile and a nod toward your camera. • Avoid Telephoto Lenses: It is best to use them only when shooting landscapes, animals or during performances or festivals, when it is difficult to get close to people. Even then try to seek your subject out afterward to tell them you’ve taken a photo and explain who you are. • Send copies: If possible, offer to send a copy if it turns out well and make sure you follow up. • Pay Attention to Your Prejudices: Ask yourself why you feel compelled to take a photo. Ask yourself how you would feel if the situation were reversed: would you feel comfortable having your photo taken by this person in these circumstances?
• Make Connections: On your travel seminar, you will have the opportunity to meet and talk with many local people. Take pictures of the friends that you make instead of trying to grab images from strangers on the street. • Take pictures of normal things. Pictures of your room, meals, stores, etc. will help you answer some of the basic questions like “what did you eat?” • Your trip leaders, resource people and fellow participants all form an important part of your experience. Photos of them will help trigger memories and capture the flavor of visits.
• Get closer and pay attention to details: The best pictures are ones where the subject is clear and where details help to tell the story. Getting closer (easier when the subject is not a person), can vastly improve your photo. Note: these guidelines were modified from an article by Chris Welch, Tips for Making Better Travel Photos, found in the Minneapolis StarTribune, Sunday July 16, 2000, page G9. 15
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TipsforTravel
Arrive at the airport early! New
security measures make it imperarive that you arrive at the airport a minimum of two hours early. Remember to allow time for traffic or parking problems which may arise. Also, please carry the itinerary with you in case you become separated from the group.
Check-in Procedures:
Please check your bag all the way to Singapore.
Luggage: United currently
allows one (1) checked bag and one (1) personal item at no charge. However, that is always subject to change. Please check their website for updates as we get closer to the time of departure.
Rendezvous at EWR:
The Raleigh and Charlotte groups will arrive in Newark at different times. To make sure that we’re all at the gate on time, we ask everyone to meet at the departure gate in Newark one hour before the flight to Singapore.
Late arrivals: If fo any reason you miss your flight in the departure or connecting city, it will be your responsibility to
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arrange with the airline to catch the next available flight and to arrange transportation from Changi Airport in Singapore to the hotel. As soon as your alternate plans are known, please call the Emergency Contact Person for the program about you new arrival plans so that they can leave word for the group leaders about when to expect you.
Insurance: The program fee provides health insurance coverage from January 1526, 2010, while outside the US. Please see the brochure and insurance sheets in your notebook for details. You will receive an insurance card in transit to India which you should carry with you at all times. You may want to buy separate trip cancellation insurance and life insurance. Many program expenses are non-refundable after specified dates Meals: Breakfasts are
always included at the hotel. Most lunches and some dinners are group meals provided by the program but a few lunches and several dinners are on your own. For those individuals who
have informed program sponsors of dietary restrictions, those have been conveyed to the program coordinators. However you should reiterate those restrictions to the program coordinators or guide at mealtimes.
Money Matters: The unit of currency in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (or singdollar) Singapore uses 5¢, 10¢, 20¢ 50¢ and $1 coins as well as notes in $2, $5, $10, $50, $100, and $500 denominations. A universal currency converter is available at: www.xe.com Foreign currency (cash
or traveler’s checks) may be exchanged for local currency at licensed money exchange locations (there are several very close to the hotel) and other authorized banks. Our hotels will be able to exchange foreign currency and traveler’s checks but are likely to add a commission fee and may not offer the best rate of exchange. A service charge is usually added to the exchange of traveler’s checks. Consult with your bank before departing the US to be sure that your brand of check or credit card will be accepted. Major credit cards (American Express,
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MasterCard, and Visa) are accepted by most major hotels and in many well-known restaurants. ATM’s compatible with US bankcards are also available and are generally the easiest way to obtain cash. When exchanging money, always ask for an encashment receipt when you change cash. You may need this when paying for large purchases with cash. You may also be asked to produce it when you re-exchange your dollars before you leave Singapore. Keep in mind that credit card companies try to protect themselves from theft and fraud by limiting the funds you can withdraw outside of your home country. You should call your credit card company and your bank before you leave home to inform them that you will be traveling in Singapore and planning to use your card.
Singapore may bring in 1 liter of wine, beer or spirits duty-free. Singapore does NOT allow duty-free concessions for cigarettes and tobacco. Importing chewing gum is banned. It is suggested that you record the serial numbers of all came ras, lenses, laptops, and other expensive electronic equipment and keep this with your passport. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency brought in. Fire crackers, toy currency and coins, obscene or seditious material, gun-shaped cigarette lighters, endangered species or their by-products, and pirated recordings and publications are prohibited.
Tips: The program fee includes tips for bus
The importation or exportation of illegal drugs carries the death penalty for more than 15g or heroin, 30g of morphine or cocaine, 1.2kg of opium, 500g of cannabis, 200g of cannabis resin, 1000g of cannabis mixture or 250g of methamphetamine. Penalties for trafficking in lesser amount range from 2 years in jail and 2 strokes of the cane to 30 years and 15 strokes.
Phones: When calling the US from
If you bring in prescription drugs, you should have a doctor’s letter or prescription confirming they are necessary.
drivers, local guides in Singapore, and group meals. Tipping is not usual in Singapore. In some restaurants, especially those catering to tourists, a service charge may already be included.
Singapore, dial 00+1+phone number. When calling Singapore from the US, dial 011-65-number. Some cell phone carriers offer international plans for calling from Singapore. Check with your provider for more information. Be aware that, even if your provider says that your phone will work in Singapore, it may not.
Keep receipts for purchases to use with US customs upon re-entry. See Know Before You Go for US Customs limits.
Time difference: Singapore is 12 hours
ahead of Eastern Standard Time
Electric Current: The normal electric
current in Singapore is 220 – 240 volts AC. Plugs are three-pronged, square pin, similar to what you would find in the United Kingdom. If you need electrical appliances, bring along transformers and converters for electrical appliances.
Customs: Please read through the
additional customs information for Singapore at the following link: Singapore Customs Guide. General regulations are as follows: Visitors to 17
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Film: Please note that you should ask
permission prior to taking photos. Also please ask permission before taking pictures in schools. Please note that carrying a camera may add to your entry fee at attractions. Although American and Japanese film are available in Singapore, you may not always find the size or speed you want, and the price is usually higher than in the US. Note: X- rays from airport scanners don’t affect digital camera images or film that has been processed, i.e. film from which you have received prints, slides, Kodak Photo CD discs, or Kodak Picture CD discs. X-ray equipment used to inspect carry-on baggage uses a very low level of x-radiation that will not cause noticeable damage to your film. However, baggage that is checked (loaded on the planes as cargo) sometimes goes through equipment with higher energy x-rays. New baggage scanning equipment can jeopardize your film. Therefore take these precautions when traveling with unprocessed film: • Don’t place single-use cameras or unprocessed film in any luggage or baggage that will be checked. This includes cameras that still have film in them. • If an attendant or security personnel informs you that your carry-on baggage must be stowed with the checked luggage or go through a second scan, you should remove your unprocessed film.
should be advised that film could be harmed and you should take it out of your luggage. Lead-lined bags, available from photo retailers, will weaken the x-radiation on film and reduce potential damage. However, the effectiveness of any particular lead bag depends on the intensity and electric potential of the X-ray generator, the lead’s thickness, and the film speed. If you use a lead bag, check with the manufacturer for the effectiveness of their products with airport X-ray devices. A lead bag on the scanner screen may trigger the inspection process. In a typical airport surveillance situation, the baggage may be pulled aside for additional inspection.
Safety/Security: Always carry the
emergency contact sheet with the name of the hotel and the program itinerary with you. The former will assist taxi drivers and others in getting you to the right place and the latter will insure that you know how to catch up with the group if you should become separated from it. Travelers’ checks should be kept with you at all times and not left in the hotel, even if in a locked suitcase. The same applies to airline tickets, passports, and other valuables. It is wise to keep a copy of your passport in a secure place in your luggage. Our hotels may have safe deposit boxes either in the rooms or at the reception area. Keep the number, date and place of issuance of your passport and travelers checks separate from the documents. It is recommended that you leave good jewelry at home.
• Have your exposed film processed locally before passing through airport security on your return trip. • If you’re going to be traveling through multiple X-ray examination (more than 5 times), request a hand search of your carry-on baggage. FAA regulations in the US allow for a hand search of photographic film and equipment if requested. However, non-US airports may not honor this request. • If you’re asked to step aside for a more thorough search of your carry-on baggage, you 18
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Safetyand HealthTips The Center can’t guarantee your safety while traveling but the staff is very conscious of participant safety in planning and during the exchange. Among the many precautions program planners take are the following: • Checking periodically with the international counterpart planning the program on local safety issues • Monitoring State Department advisories and warnings • Contacting State Department Country Desk or US Consulate or Embassy in country when conditions seem questionable •
Providing you with Emergency Contact Information
• Registering your group at the nearest US Consulate or Embassy with a list of participants and the group itinerary
Although there are certain inherent risks in international travel, there are things that you can do to help insure your own safety and that of the group when traveling abroad: • The State Department publication, A Safe Trip Abroad contains some valuable suggestions. In addition, the Center recommends the following actions by participants found on the following pages.
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BEHAVIOR
TRAVEL AND GETTING AROUND
• Avoid public places where U.S. Americans are known to congregate, for example, Hard Rock Café, American Express offices, etc.
• Avoid unregulated modes of transportation.
• Don’t draw attention to yourself or the group by talking loudly in public. U.S. Americans in their enthusiasm for their new experiences can seem unintentionally obnoxious to others.
• Singpaore Controlled and Prohibited Goods
• If you become aware of a dangerous situation or a possible health hazard, contact the group leader immediately. • Respect the customs and obey the laws of the host country. • Be on your best behavior. For example, avoid arguments over a restaurant tab, which would call attention to you. •
Watch out for each other!
•
Look at the Customs Info for Singapore
• Carry the Emergency Contact List and the itinerary with you at all times. Also have your hotel or host address written out in the host language for easy reference by host nationals, taxi drivers, etc. It helps to carry a hotel business card or brochure as well. • Stay with the group. If you must leave the group, inform the leader or a group member of your whereabouts. Your group might want to develop a buddy system to help insure the safety of all.
• Be careful who and what you photograph. Always ask permission before taking pictures.
• Be alert in airports. Watch and report any unattended luggage. Don’t leave yours unattended! Don’t agree to watch a stranger’s bag.
• Beware of pickpockets. Carry purses securely tucked under your arm. Carry valuables such as passports and tickets in an internal pocket or under your clothing or leave them in the hotel lock box.
• Make copies of the picture page of your passport and any other important documents you carry with you (i.e., visas, green card). Give a copy to the Center, leave a copy at home and carry a copy with you.
• Be alert to your surroundings and those around you.
• Don’t go anywhere with a stranger, no matter how lovely they may seem.
• Keep away from political and other demonstrations.
• Travel light. It will simplify check in at airports but it will also make you more mobile in the event that you have to move quickly in an emergency. •
Walk only in well-lighted, populated areas.
• Travel with a companion whenever possible. Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system to avoid appearing like a vulnerable tourist. Travel in daylight hours if you must travel alone.
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HEALTH
FINANCES
• Visit the CDC website to learn more about health conditions in Singapore. • During long international flights, walk around the plane frequently to keep your circulation going and help avoid blood clots. Flex legs, feet and ankles in the seat. Drink lots of water and avoid dehydration by limiting alcohol and caffeine intake. Elastic support stockings may help reduce the danger of blood clots (Joe and Terry Graedon, News and Observer, Oct. 7, 2001). • Consider your own health situation and consult with your physician before traveling. • Carry medicines in prescription bottles with you in carry on luggage. Bring a copy of the prescription(s) or letter from your healthcare provider on office stationary explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you.
• Be discreet when paying for something. (Although it may seem like play money to you, it isn’t to the host nationals!). • Be cautious when withdrawing funds from ATM’s again being conscious of people around you. • Have an emergency financial plan. For example, have a credit card which can be used in the event of unexpected expenses. • Carry your HTH health insurance card with you at all times. • Become familiar with the HTH health insurance policy, which is covered by the program fee. • Consider purchasing individual cancellation insurance, which is not covered by the program fee.
• Take extra pairs of contacts or prescription lenses. • Do not buy foods on the streets. Exceptions are food that you see being cooked and served hot on clean or disposable plates and commercially packaged foods.
DRESS • Dress to blend in with the local culture so as to avoid calling attention to yourself as an U.S. American. Avoid American flags, university paraphernalia, tennis shoes, baseball caps, and other clothing that marks you as an American. • Leave jewelry at home, especially your Rolex and other flashy items!
Check Out the Following Websites for Additional Safety & Health Tips American Citizen Services A Safe Trip Abroad US Department of State Travel Warnings Health Information for Travelers Deep Vein Thrombosis Traveler’s Diarrhea
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Packing Checklist ̘̘
Passport
̘̘
̘̘ Passport Holder (waist pack or neck strap) for carrying key documents securely. ̘̘
Ticket
̘̘ Debit/Credit Card (Note: ATMs are widely available, be sure to let your bank know prior to leaving for the trip that you will be in Singapore, so as to avoid red flags) ̘̘ Cell Phone (check with your service provider to see if they have a plan for Singapore) ̘̘ Watch/Travel Alarm Clock (especially if you are not bringing your cell phone, in order to stay on time for meetings and departures) ̘̘
Lightweight Flashlight
̘̘ Medical/health supplies, including: bandaids, OTC diarrhea medication, Tylenol/Aspirin and etc. as you believe you might need ̘̘ Medications in their prescription containers for the entire trip/copy of prescriptions ̘̘
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
̘̘ Wash cloth (these may not be available in the hotels) ̘̘ Earplugs, especially if you are a light sleeper ̘̘
Cosmetics
̘̘ Extra pair of glasses or contact lens, and a copy of your lens prescription ̘̘ Copy of the first page of your passport stored separately from your passport ̘̘ Transformer/adapter if you want to use electrical devices ̘̘ Toilet paper or tissues for use in public toilets (be sure to have this in your purse or on you when outside of the hotel) ̘̘
Camera/memory card
̘̘ Journal for keeping notes and observations.
Wash-and-dry towelettes or hand sanitizer
̘̘ Insurance card and claim form (will be distributed at orientation) ̘̘
Umbrella
̘̘ Business casual clothes for site visits; casual dress for sightseeing and free time ̘̘
Raincoat or jacket
̘̘
1 pair of comfortable business shoes
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Packing Tips
Clothes: Business casual clothing will be appropriate
for meetings with government officials and site visits. Semi-casual dress will be fine for days when we are sightseeing and traveling. The average temperature in Carry on baggage: It is recommended Singapore in July is in the mid to upper 80s for highs and that you include all medications in their the mid-70s for lows. Many office buildings will have (very prescription containers and at least a cold) A/C, however, many schools will not so plan to layer change of underwear in your carry on clothing. Plan for rain. Take clothes which are wrinkle luggage since it is not unusual to have resistant, hand washable, darker colors (to hide dirt), bags arrive later than you do! quick drying, interchangeable. Also, don’t worry about wearing the same clothes several times. Others will be Regarding new TSA security doing the same thing! requirements for flights, liquids, gels and/or aerosols are permitted through security checkpoints. Items must fit in Luggage: We ask that you limit your luggage to one one clear, re-sealable quart or liter-sized checked bag of no more than 50 pounds and one carryplastic bag, in containers of 3.4oz/100ml on bag. You are responsible for carrying your own or less. (Please note: The TSA's exact luggage. United (please link to United’s website - http:// measurements are stated above. But for www.united.com/web/en-US/default.aspx ) currently ease of memory please follow the 3-11 allows one checked bag of 50 pounds not to exceed rule: 3 ounce bottle or less, 1 quart-sized, maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (length + width clear, plastic, zip-top bag, 1 bag per + height) at no additional charge on flights to Asia. This passenger placed in screening bin.) Click is subject to change so please double check the website HERE to learn more about the 3-1-1 rule. before travel. Plastic bags must be completely sealed and will be x-rayed at the security checkpoint separately. The following items are allowed, but must be presented to officials at security checkpoints if they are not contained in clear plastic bags or are of greater volume than 3.4oz/100ml.
United currently allows one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop computer to bring along with you on your flight. The carry-on bag must fit under your seat or in the overhead bin and should not be more that 9” X 14” X 22” (length + width + height). Please check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website when considering how and what to pack.
• Medications (liquid, gel or aerosol) • Liquids, juices or gels for diabetic Don’t carry valuables while traveling: You want passengers who indicate a need for to avoid expensive jewelry and other such item which such items to address their medical would attract the attention of pickpockets. condition. (A letter from your physician is not necessary).
Passport: Make a copy of the picture
page and visa page and keep it separate from your passport. Leave another copy of your passport (picture and visa page) at home, or scan and save it in your email.
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Participant HealthInsurance WhileAbroad The participant program fee covers international health insurance through HTH Worldwide Insurance Services. This policy is valid while abroad, beginning at 12:01 am on the departure date and ending at 11:59 PM on the return date. This policy covers health only. Participants are advised to seriously consider purchasing lost baggage and trip cancellation insurance, since the Center is not responsible for the cost of missed flights for illness or other reasons. Participants wishing to remain abroad past the scheduled return date may contact their exchange coordinator at The Center for International Understanding (CIU), if they wish to extend their insurance coverage. The Plan features HTH Worldwide’s Global Health and Safety Services- online tools and toll-free assistance to help members manage their health and safety risks, from finding the right doctor to receiving real-time alerts and advice on health and security threats.
ON THE NEXT PAGE ARE SOME SUGGESTED PROCEDURES FOR VARIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES
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HTH Worldwide Numbers While you are abroad: • +0-610-254-8771 (collect calls accepted) Within the US: • 1-800-257-4823
• 1-800-101-0061 HTH Worldwide Corporate Office • 866-281-1668 Center for International Understanding • 919-420-1360 In all calls to HTH Worldwide Insurance Service, please refer to the patient name and the University of North Carolina group plan underwritten by UniCare Life and Health Insurance Policy, Policy Number U-1052-A-06, which covers participants in NC Center for International Understanding programs as well as UNC system students studying abroad.
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IF PARTICIPANT NEEDS HELP FINDING A DOCTOR: Ask the Center program
coordinator or local contact person for suggestions. If he/she cannot help, you may consult the HTH website which lists doctors in various cities, about 90% of whom have agreed to accept HTH coverage without requiring participants to pay directly. Directions for signing- in relate to students but Center participants may also use it. To do so, click on “sign in” and fill in your e-mail address. To create a password, click “No, I’m signing up for the first time.” Then fill n the certificate number from your insurance card and your name. Leave the “graduation date” blank. After you accept the agreement, create your password, which must include both numbers and letters. If you still need assistance finding a service provider, call HTH Worldwide at +0-610-254-8771 directly for referrals to doctors or hospitals. The numbers for HTH are on the back of the medical insurance card. Referrals to medical facilities are not intended as payment guarantees but are to direct participants to quality medical services, Thus the participant may still have to pay part or all expenses and request reimbursement later.
IF PARTICIPANT KNOWS WHAT DOCTOR OR HOSPITAL TO VISIT: He/she may go directly
to the service provider and present the insurance card as proof of coverage. Many service providers will require that the participant pay for all or part of the services but some may agree to bill HTH directly. If required to pay, the participant should have the doctor sign the claim form and provide a receipt. He/she can later submit the claim form to HTH Worldwide along with receipts. All participants will receive a claim form with their insurance cards.
IF PARTICIPANT NEEDS MEDICAL EVACUATION: If a covered person sustains an injury or illness and adequate medical facilities are not available, contact HTH for a medical evacuation to the nearest hospital, appropriate medical facility or back to the covered person’s home country or country of regular domicile. Medical evacuation requires written certification by the attending physician that the evacuation is medically necessary and must be approved in advance by HTH Worldwide. The policy covers medically necessary evacuation expenses up to $100,000. Prior approval by HTH Worldwide is required.
If the service provider is willing to accept the policy as coverage but wants to coordinate payment or wants proof of coverage other than the insurance card, the service provider should call HTH Worldwide and identify the participant as a member of the University of North Carolina group plan to confirm coverage. FOR REPATRIATION SERVICES: If (Collect calls from outside the US are accepted). a covered person dies, HTH Worldwide will arrange for the repatriation of the covered person’s body to his or her home country ALL MEDICAL EVACUATIONS AND or country of regular domicile. The policy covers necessary expenses up to $25,000. REPATRIATIONS ARE SUBJECT It does not include the transportation TO THE PRIOR APPROVAL OF HTH of anyone accompanying the body or WORLDWIDE INSURANCE SERVICES. visitation or funeral expenses. Expenses for repatriation require prior approval by HTH Worldwide.
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Singapore Web Resources
The following page contains web resources that will help you gain more insight into the history, culture, and key issues facing Singapore. Just click on the hyperlink to access a particular resource. 26
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Education Resources
Education in Singapore (MOE) Singapore Ministry of Education Singapore Education Landscape Emerging Education Hubs: The Case of Singapore Ravinder Sidhu et al Teacher and Leader Effectiveness in High-Performing Education Systems Report The potential of Singapore’s Ability Driven Education to Prepare Students for a Knowledge Economy Charlene Tan 2006 Improving Schools Through Reflection for Teachers Charlene Tan 2008
Miscellaneous Resources
Singapore Expats – About Singapore Singapore Actually (a blog about living in Singapore) Kwintessential Singapore Focus Singapore Official Singapore Tourism Website Background Note: Singapore Country Specific Information – Singapore CIA World FactBook – Singapore
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SingaporeBookResources
Non Fiction Books ̘̘
Baker, Jim. Crossroads: A Popular History of Malaysia and Singapore
̘̘ Birger, Frederickson; Lee, Sing Kong; and Goh, Chor Boon. Toward a Better Future: Education and Training for Economic Development in Singapore Since 1965 ̘̘ Bravo-Bhasin, Marion. CultureShock Singapore!: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette ̘̘ Darling-Hammond, Linda and Rothman, Robert (eds.). Teacher and Leader Effectiveness in High-Performing Education Systems. A report by the Alliance for Education and Stanford Center for Opportunity Policy in Education. ̘̘
George, Cherian. Singapore: The Air-Conditioned Nation
̘̘ George, Cherian. Contentious Journalism and the Internet: Towards Democratic Discourse in Malaysia and Singapore ̘̘
Lee, Kuan Yew. From Third World to First: The Singapore Story 1965-2000
̘̘
Milligan, Angela. Culture Smart Singapore: A Quick Guide to Customs and Etiquette
̘̘
Singh, Bilveer. Politics and Governance in Singapore: An Introduction
̘̘
Soon, Tan Yong and Goh Chok Tong. Living the Singapore Dream 28
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̘̘ Tan, Jason and Ng Pak Tee. Shaping Singapore’s Future: Thinking Schools, Learning Nation ̘̘ There are also a number of good guide books available for Singapore from Lonely Planet, Eyewitness Guides, Frommer, Rough Guides, etc.
Fiction Books ̘̘ Fiction can also offer insight into a culture. Below are some Singaporean authors whose works are available in the US: ̘̘ Philip Jeyaretnam ̘̘ Lau Siew Mei ̘̘ Catherin Lim ̘̘ Tan Hwee Hwee
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100 East Six Forks Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone: 919.420.1360 Web: ciu.northcarolina.edu