Summer Abroad: Galapagos Islands
The Practice of Environmentalism
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Uncover the truth behind story-telling as a basic component in the creation of scientific knowledge and policy outcomes and examine the media’s role in shaping the scientific and policy enterprises. This program will engage you in hands-on, project-based learning in a unique, revered ecosystem that faces immense environmental and policy challenges.
Program Directors:
Academic Details
This 6-credit program brings together faculty and students in environmental science, international politics, and media production to forge an interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues. The experience in the Galapagos Islands is the fieldwork component of the semester-long spring course titled, The Practice of Environmentalism: Science, Policy, and Communication. Students spend the spring semester learning field research methods, policy analysis, documentary communication techniques, and other relevant skills designed to give a broad understanding of and engagement with particular environmental challenges. During the summer fieldwork course, they produce multi-faceted projects that highlight their interdisciplinary learning. The Program is jointly offered by SIS, SOC, and CAS.
Because the program occurs over two semesters, students are required to commit to both the spring and summer courses upon application. They carry 3 credits in the spring and 3 credits in the summer.
Site Visits
Students spend a few days in Quito, Ecuador before flying together to the Galapagos Islands where they travel in research teams between the various islands that make up the archipelago.
2010 Program Dates:
Spring semester course: January – May
Summer field work: TBA (travel will occur in May)
Program Costs and registration:
Students will be registered in the spring semester for 3 credits of SIS 596, ENVS 596, or COMM 596. Regular AU tuition plus the SOC equipment fee ($100) will be charged through Student Accounts.
Students will also be registered in the summer semester for 3 credits of SIS 303/603. Regular AU tuition plus the program fee will be charged through Student Accounts.
Who Should Attend:
Graduate and undergraduate AU students in all majors and disciplines may apply. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, an interest in environmental issues, and the ability to adapt to a cross-cultural team environment.
NB: Undergraduate seniors who participate in this program will not be eligible for graduation until August 2010. However, they will be permitted to participate in Commencement activities in May 2010.
Logistics:
Students are responsible for making their own flight arrangements to/from Quito. Students will be housed in dormitory-style accommodations for the duration of the summer portion of the Program.
Application and Deadlines:
Application deadline for Spring and Summer 2010: November 2
- Download and read the entire program guide. Complete the application included on pages 10-13.
- Submit the entire application packet to SIS Study Abroad Programs, mailbox in SIS 103.
