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Talk to a representative for this program at the Study Abroad Fair.
Belize, Belmopan
Immerse yourself in the culture of Belize while studying individuals with disabilities. Led by UW-Madison faculty in Rehabilitation Psychology & Special Education, this three-week, three-credit program is designed to expand the knowledge base of future educators, clinicians, and all society members to better understand and support the diverse needs and interests of individuals with disabilities in the United States and Belize.
Learning Objectives
We have overall Goals and Expectations for Study Abroad Participants, covering the personal, academic and professional aspects of study abroad. Additionally on this program, you can:
Course Objectives- Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of ability differences and exceptionality
- Articulate knowledge of the specific disability categories designated by government laws and policies in the United States and in Belize
- Summarize significant legislation and litigation that has affected the education, work, and lives of individuals with disabilities in the United States and in Belize
- Identify barriers to full participation for individuals with disabilities and how certain practices and policies can help dismantle such barriers (e.g., Universal Design for Learning) in the United States and in Belize
- Demonstrate knowledge of practices and interventions utilized by professionals who work with people with disabilities and/or children and youth who may develop disabilities in the United States and in Belize
Program Objectives
- Explore the historical and cultural significance of ancient Maya civilizations by visiting archeological sites such as Xunantunich and Lamanai, and reflect on their enduring influence on contemporary Belizean society.
- Engage with Belize’s multicultural heritage through experiencing a Garifuna celebration and engaging with the Ketchi and Mopan Maya communities, deepening understanding of Indigenous traditions, values, and ways of life.
- Gain insight into local food systems and community interactions by participating in culturally authentic settings such as the San Ignacio Farmers Market, fostering appreciation for Belizean agriculture, cuisine, and small-scale commerce.
- Develop cultural humility and cross-cultural communication skills through immersive visits and interactions with local individuals and communities, including students and educators at Stella Maris School.
- Understand the interconnectedness of Belize’s natural environment and cultural identity through eco-cultural excursions, such as a boat river safari and snorkeling the Barrier Reef, and explore how local communities engage with and protect these resources.
Develop community among this group of your UW-Madison peers.
- 1.1. Learners differ in cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical development and ways of knowing at different life stages and have varying patterns of development and learning.
- 1.2. To thrive, learners need supportive, inclusive, and safe learning environments and activities that support development and learning by being responsive to each learner’s cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical needs.
- 5.5. Professional ethics; and state and federal law requirements, state and district policies and regulations that guide their interactions with and communications about students, colleagues, parents and communities, and their performances as teachers.
- 5.6. How institutional contexts, policies and practices influence inclusion and exclusion of some learners.
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Sustainability
We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.
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Eligibility
- Preference is given to students in the School of Education (all majors). Further preference is given to students with a declared RPSE major.
First-Year students must have 2 semesters completed by the time of participation (the preceding Fall and Spring semesters).
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
- Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
- Good academic and disciplinary standing
- At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution
Advising Location
Program Structure
UW Signature
Subjects
Classroom Language
English
Housing
Guesthouse
Program Duration
Summer: Mid-May - Early JuneTentative 2027 Dates: May 15 - June 5
Application Deadline(s)
| Summer 2026 - [Cancelled] | 1/2/2026 | Cost Details |
| Extended Deadline: 1/19/2026 | ||
| Summer 2027 | 1/1/2027 | Cost Details |
Future durations will be posted at a later date.
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This course will introduce you to the cross-cultural concepts of disability and inclusive education. We will examine the history of special education in both global contexts, including government-mandated programs designed to support individuals with disabilities in schools and in communities. We will examine the etiology and characteristics of specific categories of disability labels and explore barriers and policies and practices that support an inclusive society. Topics germane to the study of disability will be explored including inclusion, disability justice, diversity, accessibility and other current issues and trends.
A 25-hour international community-based learning (CBL) experience working with individuals with disabilities will be a vital component of this course. Students will complete their CBL experience likely in one of the following settings in Belmopan, Belize:
- Garden City Primary School
- Evergreen Primary School
- Belmopan Comprehensive High School
- Kuxlin Ha Government Primary School
Upon successful completion of the academic program, students will earn 3 credits of either RP & SE 274: UW Disability, Access, and Inclusion in Belize, or 3 credits of RP & SE 300: Individuals with Disabilities.
Program Leader
Dr. Heather Dahl, Teaching Faculty, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special EducationDr. Susan Syverud, Teaching Faculty, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education