Students explore natural areas various aspects of the sciences in a foreign country under the direction of a faculty member in the sciences. Prior to departure, students meet with the instructor(s) for cultural discussions and to choose an individual topic of research. While abroad, students study various aspects of the sciences and culture via the instructor and/or educational travel guide. Before arrival at the country or while in the country, students conduct research on their individual topics. Either during the study abroad or on their return, students reflect on their study abroad experience, and present it in the form of a paper, portfolio, or oral project. Specific travel information will be announced at least one semester prior to departure.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
To explore the natural features of another country, understand the process of science in the country, exchange scientific ideas in a multicultural setting, and experience the culture of the country. As a Study Abroad course, this class will promote acquaintance with the natural features as well as the people of the country; this will be an interdisciplinary study abroad with emphasis on the sciences. This course will also provide opportunities for critical thinking and an understanding of research methods, the results of which will be presented as a research paper or other project.
- Processes of science
- The specific course topics are to be determined by the instructor. However, students in each Study Abroad have the opportunity to study and learn about the processes of science.
- Research methods
- The specific course topics are to be determined by the instructor. However, students in each Study Abroad have the opportunity to study and learn about research methods.
- Flora, fauna, geological features, ecological processes, and/or other scientific and applied science processes
- The specific course topics are to be determined by the instructor. However, students in each Study Abroad have the opportunity to study and learn about flora, fauna, geological features, ecological processes, and/or other scientific and applied science processes.
- Culture and government of the country being visited
- The specific course topics are to be determined by the instructor. However, students in each Study Abroad have the opportunity to study and learn about the culture and the government of the country being visited.
- Destinations of scientific and cultural interest
- The specific course topics are to be determined by the instructor. However, students in each Study Abroad have the opportunity to study and learn about destinations of scientific and cultural interest.
Assessment and Requirements
Prior to departure, students will complete assigned readings and participate in discussions and plans for the study abroad. Before arrival at the country or while in the country, students conduct research on their individual topics. Either during the study abroad or on their return, students reflect on their study abroad experience, and present their research in the form of a paper, portfolio, or oral project. Assessment methods will be determined by each instructor, but the following assessments are recommended:
- Consultations with the instructor prior to departure
- Final project, portfolio, or oral project
Prior to departure, students will complete assigned readings and participate in discussions and plans for the study abroad.
Written, oral, or experiential resources approved by the instructor.
Outcomes
- Natural Sciences
- Scientific Reasoning