***** PROGRAM CLOSED. DETAILS ON WINTER TERM 2017 AVAILABLE IN MARCH 2016******

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The small nation of Ecuador epitomizes many of the major environmental challenges of our time particularly as it pertains to deforestation. The goal of this class is to give students field experience and exposure to some of these major environmental processes as occurring in Ecuador. This international study experience will examine Ecuadorian trends in forest use, extent, and conservation. While studying in Ecuador we will examine: (i) Amazonian deforestation and how payment for ecosystem services and tenure programs are trying to halt deforestation, (ii) Indigenous management of forest ecosystems, (iii) the human livelihood & food security implications of deforestation, (iv) the international pressures driving deforestation in Ecuador, and (v) the role of forests in prompting biodiversity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The course will be 50% in the classroom learning about the principles of deforestation and 50% in the field working on reforestation projects.

CLASSES:

GEOG 399: International Field Study (4 credits)
ENVR 495: Environmental Field Studies (4 credits)

EXCURSIONS:


Guayaquil Malecón

Uzhupud Hacienda
Museo Pumpaungo
Macas, Amazon Rainforest (overnight)

Visit the Indigenous Shuar nation
Museo de las Culturas Aborigenes


Pedernales, beaches
Punta Gorda (overnight)

Isla Corazon frigate bird refuge
Canoa beaches

HOUSING:

In Cuenca, students will reside in groups of two with host families.

In Bahia, students will reside in dorm style accommodation with separate male and female dorms.

PARTNER INSTITUTIONS

Global Student Embassy

Global Student Embassy is a simple idea that uses the increasing interconnectedness of the world to connect small communities. The issues that students have identified in their communities are also global issues. Students who live worlds apart are on the same page concerning these very important issues despite the differences in their cultures. Through learning cultural differences, engaging in public service and sharing positive experiences, GSE aims to cultivate young global citizens who feel empowered to create positive change in their local and international communities. GSE’s Eco-Action Education program in Bahia de Caraquez involves 125 students at 4 schools in restoring their local environment and engaging their community in sustainable practices. Local GSE Director Ramon Loor is a Natural Science teacher and a steward of la Punta Gorda Natural Preserve who connects students to projects focused on: reforestation, recycling, water scarcity, organic agriculture, climate change, and the effects these issues have on the local community.


Center for International American Studies

The Centers for Interamerican Studies (CEDEI) is a not-for-profit institution of higher learning in Cuenca, Ecuador. It was founded in 1992 in recognition of the 500th anniversary of the meeting of the Old and New Worlds. To foster understanding among the people of the Americas, CEDEI sponsors a variety of academic activities independently and in conjunction with universities in North and South America. CEDEI offers several programs throughout the year, including credit-bearing programs for those looking for University credit and Spanish immersion for non-students and professionals.

The main CEDEI center is situated in the beautiful colonial heart of Cuenca, just a few blocks from the central plaza, Parque Calderón. Our building, originally a colonial house, is home to the Department of International Programs and the Spanish Language Department. Our rooftop study area, various classrooms, and central location offer a wonderful setting for students to study, relax and take part in cultural dance and cooking classes.

COST:

The cost of the trip will include 4 credits SU tuition and fees, lodging, transportation, scheduled excursions, and some meals.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

The application deadline is May 1, 2015. Students will be admitted on a rolling basis. Once the maximum number of students have been admitted and have submitted the Confirmation of Participation form, additional students may be added to a waiting list. Students will create an online account profile and then submit their application online by selecting "Apply to this Program" below.

Students will submit the following through their online application:
- A 300 word essay
- An unofficial transcript
- A completed online recommendation form from a faculty member who knows the student well