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STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM:
CHILE
SPRING 2003
| Quarter: | Spring 2003 |
| Faculty: | Jorge
Gilbert Ryo Imamura |
| Enrollment: | 30 students |
| Credits: | 16-equivalencies |
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Description...
StudyAbroad
Program in Chile has three general objectives. Firstly, the program
offers interested students the opportunity to study and experience
firsthand the practices of Liberation Theology and Buddhism which
is enjoying growing popularity with the increased presence and influence
of Asian culture. The studies will involve research, participatory
observation, and close collaboration with communities and groups.
Secondly, study abroad in Chile immerses participants in the cultural,
socio-political and economic reality of a country struggling to overcome
its condition of underdevelopment. Thirdly, this program in Chile
provides practical opportunities for learning and communicating in
the Spanish language. Students will also have the opportunity to participate
in workshops, conferences, meditation sessions and discussions with
political and community leaders and grassroots organizations and to
study the social, religious, artistic, folkloric and intellectual
life of the country.Students interested in Latin American studies, Buddhist studies, Catholicism, Asian studies, political economy, video production, human services, communication, art, media, folklore, and environmental or cultural studies can participate. However, interested students must contact either faculty member no later than the second week of the winter quarter to arrange their projects.
Background of Chile...
One of the oldest democracies in Latin America that was abruptly interrupted by a military coup d'etat between 1973 and 1990, Chile is rapidly trying to insert itself into a new international world order, under the leadership of an elected civilian government. The economy of the country is proudly exhibited by international organizations as one the most effective and successful in the Third World. Chilean exports have reached all markets around the world and investments in Chile's economy have grown significantly. Programs and projects at all levels are being developed by governmental, private, international and Non Governmental Organizations. For these reasons the country is changing very fast not only economically but, also, culturally and politically.
- Despite the fact that a large segment of Chile's population is of European extraction, the indigenous traditions from the Americas are strong and visible in several parts of the country. The desert north, once part of the Inca Empire, preserves important archeological remains, while Aymara Indians still farm the valleys and terraces of the Andes. South of the Chilean heartland, the Mapuche Indians inhabit communities whose symbolic importance in Chilean life greatly exceeds their political and economic significance. Until the end of the 19th century, the Mapuche maintained an effective and heroic resistance to the southward advance of Chilean rule and its expansionist goals. Cities like Temuco and Osorno are the home of most of this native population. Chile's tremendous geographic diversity, and surprising cultural variety, have made it an important destination in its own right.
Logistics...
The first week
of the quarter will be used to introduce the students to the culture,
politics and geography of the country. Working groups will be organized
to join different research projects according to the particular interests
of the contract students. Once in Chile, the group will visit governmental,
non-governmental, private and church institutions and projects in
urban and rural areas of the country. Trips to the Andes, rural, urban
and mining sectors in the North, Port of Coquimbo , Valle de Elqui,
the National Congress in the port of Valparaíso, and meetings
with governmental authorities, political leaders, religious teachers
and grassroots organizations will be arranged. Students will have
the opportunity to interact with a wide range of the Chilean population
to learn and evaluate the effects of the new economic and cultural
and religious changes. Classes, conferences and workshops about this
and other topics will be available at the University of Chile and
other educational and research institutions.
Requirements...
Students are expected
to keep a personal journal documenting their experiences in the country,
and to work on individual and group research projects. To carry out
their research projects, students will be able to travel around the
country, consult with various resource people, and utilize libraries
and university facilities. The two faculty sponsors of the program
will provide advice and guidance, and will evaluate the work at the
end of the quarter. Students will stay in Chile for four weeks (or
more). Upon their return, the students will complete their projects
and research at TESC.
Participants
are required to pay a deposit of $150 (non refundable) by February
18, 2003, which will go toward their air fares. Although knowledge
of Spanish is not a requirement, it is highly recommended that the
students take the 4 credit courses being offered by TESC during the
fall and winter quarters. The lectures and workshops by the faculty
will be given in English.
The Study Abroad Program to Chile includes:
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air fare (round trip Seattle-Santiago-Seattle)
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room and board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in Santiago (Chilean standards)
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transportation from the airport to the residence (Estadio de la Contraloría de la República de Chile)
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transportation and visits to different sites (gasoline costs and tolls not included)
on-site orientation (guides, local tours, etc) -
program related expenses (class & studio rooms, guest lectures, etc).
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NOTE: It does not include your TESC tuition fee.
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FINANCIAL AID
Students are entitled to apply for financial aid and loans from the college. If you need financial aid for the program you must start this process no later than February 1st, 2003. After this date you will need to use personal funds to pay for your expenses. Financial Aid will reimburse you upon your return. For more information contact the campus Financial Aid Office as soon as possible regarding application for support for this program.