Study Abroad in Belize - Summer I 2008
Delaware County Community College

Field Ecology (in Belize) - BIO 115 - 4 credits
Instructor: Dr. Steven M. Aquilani

Modern Latin America - HIS 253 - 3 credits
Instructor: Dr. Kevin Cahill
 
*** STUDENTS CAN OPT TO ENROLL IN ONE OR BOTH COURSES, THUS EARNING
UP TO 7 CREDITS IN 13 DAYS ABROAD ***

NEXT PROGRAM SCHEDULED FOR MAY 25 - JUNE 6, 2008 (SUMMER I)

 Contact Lynne Easton, Enrollment Management Office (Room 3540) to receive additional information and sign up for the course
 

sunrise

Above:  students enjoy a sunrise on South Water Caye (photo by S.Aquilani, 2003)


FIELD ECOLOGY (BIO 115) COURSE DESCRIPTION:

Field Ecology is designed primarily for majors in biology, natural science, and related fields, yet is open to students of all majors.  This course introduces students to the general principles of field ecology pertaining to terrestrial, aquatic, and marine habitats. Emphasis will be placed upon regional conservation issues, biodiversity concepts, plant and animal interactions and adaptations, effects of human disturbance on native flora and fauna, and field research techniques.  Students are expected to develop and apply skills in field research and in utilizing the scientific method. There are additional fees associated with this course that will vary depending upon the region being studied.


MODERN LATIN AMERICA (HIS 253) COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course explores Modern Latin American History by focusing on the history and culture of Belize, a small nation in Central America. We will examine the region’s indigenous civilizations, European colonization, independence movements, and social and political events and issues of the 20th century. Within these broad topics, we will investigate the emergence of Belize’s ethnic groups, and the political economic, and environmental challenges created by Belize’s colonial legacy.  Our trip to Belize will offer us a unique opportunity to explore Mayan ruins, navigate rain forests to observe the impact of economic development and interview various Belizeans to learn perceptions of their nation and its place in the world.   

PROGRAM COSTS:

Travel-related Fees: $2600 (all inclusive; includes all travel related expenses, 3 meals/day, all fees)

Tuition: at the sponsoring-school district rate


Overview of Course Activities:

CLICK HERE
for overview of terrestrial ecology at La Milpa Field Station, Orange Walk District, Belize, Central America (Week 1)

CLICK HERE
for overview of marine/coral reef ecology at South Water Caye, Belize, Central America (Week 2)


Course Competencies:

(1)  utilize the scientific method to test hypotheses

(2)  conduct an independent research project in a forest and marine ecosystem

(3)  utilize proper techniques in capturing and handling small mammals, bats, and birds

(4)  participate in surveys for monitoring plants and animals

(5)  utilize radio telemetry devices

(6)  describe regional and global biodiversity patterns

(7)  discuss the processes that produce and maintain biodiversity

(8)  describe the evolutionary significance of plant and animal adaptations in the rainforest

(9)  distinguish between different tropical forest types

(10)  describe the ecological role and importance of bats and birds

(11)  describe the ecological and commercial importance of tropical rainforests

(12)  identify common rainforest birds

(13)  describe the ecological and commercial importance of coral reefs and coastal mangrove forests

(14)  identify common coral reef fish and invertebrates

(15)  develop an appreciation of the cultures and history of Belize


Student Resources:

CLICK HERE for a copy of the BIO 115 Course Syllabus

CLICK HERE for a copy of the HIS 253 Course Syllabus

CLICK HERE for Things to Bring List

CLICK HERE for list of Recommended Field Guides (remember, these ARE NOT required)

CLICK HERE for link to Center for Disease Control Website on Immunizations and Medical Precautions


CLICK HERE for link to Information about Belize Culture, Archeology, Natural History, etc.

CLICK HERE for link to Information about our host agency, Programme for Belize


Site created and maintained by Steve Aquilani