The Yearly Seminar in the Foundation Year introduces students to both the theoretical foundations of global studies, as well as provides them with concrete tools and skills in fieldwork, research, and experiential education. In the fall semester, students explore all of the issues and expectations associated with being a Global College student using their direct experiences as the focus of the course. These include experiential education, global citizenship, field based research, service learning, direct social action, and cross- and inter-cultural understanding. Students participate in a series of sessions addressing such central topics as health, safety, and awareness as a global citizen living in a distinct culture; experiential education and social action in a globalizing world; cultural differences and cross-cultural adaptation; and an introduction to qualitative field research methods (observation, field notes, interviewing). Students will develop and carry out a group service learning project to have first hand experiences related to the content and issues examined in the seminar.
Contact hours: 45 in class and in the field.