Environmental Education and Service Learning in the Tropics, Costa Rica
June 1 - 13, 2013
Study in Central America in June 2013 with TU Professor Sarah Haines. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to use nationally recognized environmental education materials from Project Learning Tree (a division of the American Forest Foundation) in a tropical setting. Students will use Project Learning Tree materials to apply ecological concepts to environmental education and the use and management of natural resources in Costa Rica. Students will work side-by-side with local community members to complete environmental action projects. Through hands on experience, participants will develop an awareness and appreciation for the local culture and environment.
The program is based at the Selva Verde Lodge and Rainforest Reserve - a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, birders and general travelers. Committed to conservation and preservation, Selva Verde carries and supports the Certification for Sustainable Tourism.
Participants will stay at lodges and hotels with students sharing rooms. Accommodations include the Selva Verde Lodge located in the heart of the rainforest.
Check out this advice from a former program participant:
"You get out of this course what you are willing to put into it. It is a VERY fun and rewarding experience, but it is best to make sure you have realistic expectations. You will be living and working in a tropical rainforest. This means rain, heat, humidity, and yes- there are insects out there! The service learning projects are amazing opportunities to make a difference- give them your all! The days are long, but they are a lot of fun! Be prepared to have class at some odd times of day, but in some very awesome places."
Program Director:Dr. Sarah Haines - Towson University Dept. of Biological Sciences
Course: BIOL 382/582: Environmental Education and Service Learning in the Tropics (3 credits). Students may fulfill units toward their Latin American Studies elective requirements in consultation with the Latin American Studies program director prior to departure. TU students may receive Honors credit for their study abroad experience.
Cost: *$3,250 includes academic credit, housing, health insurance, excursions, and most meals. Additional costs include $150 study abroad fee, international airfare (approx. $750), any meals not included, and personal expenses.
Note: International airfare is not included in the program cost. Students will be responsible for making their own travel arrangements to the program location to arrive by the designated date and time. The Study Abroad Office will identify an optional flight which participants may purchase independently if desired.
*The Towson University Study Abroad Office reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.
Eligibility: Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5, a high school diploma or equivalent experience, and be at least 18 years old.
Note: This trip involves moderate to occasionally intense physical exertion i.e. strenuous hiking, walking, physical labor such as planting trees, digging, painting, picking up
garbage.
Application Process: Fill out the application and submit it to the TU Study Abroad Office. $250 deposit is required at time of application. Non-TU students must also submit a completed Non-Degree Enrollment Application. Non-TU graduate students must also submit an Application for Graduate School.
8000 York Road | Towson, MD 21252 | 410-704-2000
