This week we spent our class time discussing the conceptual framework for GSIF as a program.
This is the conceptual framework that we made for GSIF program. It starts in the center and works its way out toward the outside. We started in the inside with IMPACT because that is ultimately our goal. Our goal is impact to those and others who are directly involved and indirectly involved with the projects. Going out, there are the three main ‘players’ of the GSIF program; undergraduate students at Lehigh from all disciplines, professors who are mentoring the projects, and in country partnerships like the ones made in Philippines and Sierra Leone. In the spaces in which each of the circles overlap, they describes the relationships between the two partners. For example, the relationships between the professors and undergraduate students include the hands on learning, relationships, and prestige. The relationship between undergraduates and the in country partners are perspectives, cultural awareness, and more global citizenships. The relationships between the professors and in country partners include more opportunities for the flow of knowledge and other teaching opportunities. Moving outward from the circle include the types of projects that are being included in GSIF. For example, there are health care innovations, educational innovations, technical innovations, etc. These are all types of projects that students have the opportunity to take part in by joining the GSIF program. Moving out from there, in the second circle, it describes the outcomes of GSIF for each of the ventures. There are reduced stunting ratings in children, reduced maternal mortality rates, and providing sustainable and economically fit food options and recycling programs for the locals. These programs are so important and can incorporate various aspects the students are looking for in programs. This conceptual framework highlights the various benefits for the GSIF program and how they are all interconnected.