Site
created by:
Jorge Gilbert
STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM: CHILE 2006
|
Quarter: |
Spring
2006 Jorge Gilbert 20 Students 16 equivalences |
-
Description...
Study
Abroad Program
in Chile has three general objectives.
Firstly, it provides participants with an interdisciplinary curriculum
which will allow them to study, research and experience firsthand
a wide range of issues and concerns affecting Chile and South America
at the beginning of the 21st century. Secondly, contract study in
Chile immerses participants in the cultural, socio-political and economic
reality of a country struggling to overcome its condition of underdevelopment.
Thirdly, contract study 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, international 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 contracted studies.
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, La Serena, 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
faculty in charge of the Study Abroad Program will provide advice
and guidance, and will evaluate the work at the end of the quarter.
Students will work in Chile with the faculty for four weeks. 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, 2005, 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 base price will be $3,000
for four weeks. The students can extend their stays in Chile at their
own expense and liability. The air fare tickets will have to be paid
for in advance in order to secure group discounts. Therefore it is
advisable to arrange your financing as soon as possible in order to
avoid potential problems and delays in procuring funding.
The trip to Chile includes:
-
air fare (round trip Seattle-Santiago-Seattle)
-
room and board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in Santiago (Chilean standards)
-
transportation from the airport to the residence (Estadio de la Contraloría de la República de Chile)
-
transportation and visits to different sites (gasoline costs and tolls not included)
on-site orientation (guides, local tours, etc) - Spanish instruction: biginning, intermidiate and advanced levels
-
program related expenses (class & studio rooms, guest lectures, etc).
-
NOTE: It does not include your TESC tuition fee.
-
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 15, 2006. 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.