| GCOS 141 Peace and Conflict Resolution Seminar |
| The objective of this class is to confront some of the forms of violence that dominate society and to understand the causes as well as the social structures and patterns of thought behind them; looking for alternatives that lead to transformation on a personal as well as social level is the main goal. This is a class that seeks to initiate a process of awareness about global/social as well as individual struggles. Some Latin American examples will be studied. Subjects such as ethnic discrimination; violence against women; natural resources scarcity; economic, military and political conflict will be analyzed. Simple techniques will be learned to develop skills for conflict resolution. A two - week field trip to Panama or Nicaragua will be used to better understand aspects of the reality of that country: ethnic diversity as well as political and economical struggles will be studied. |
| GCOS 142 Field Work Methods for Independent Study |
| This seminar is the second semester of the yearly foundation year seminar. This course introduces students to both the theoretical foundations of global studies, as well as provides them with concrete tools and skills in field work, research, and experiential education. In the spring semester, students explore the methods of investigation that can be used to frame and understand their learning in the field. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods of research, including participatory action research methods are introduced. Students then apply their understanding of methods by undertaking a two-week independent study project. Students implement an independent project they have designed in the seminar sessions and with their faculty advisors. When students return from the field, they analyze, document and present their findings. |
COSTA RICA CENTER (GCOS) COURSE DESCRIPTIONS - GCOS 102 Living Latin American Culture I |
