Description

The summer Art and Architecture combination program is designed for students with an interest in architecture, art history, and the ways in which different styles and movements have influenced urban development in France and the Czech Republic. The program combines separate courses focusing on French and Czech architecture and art history and allows students to compare and contrast the different styles that can be found in France, the Czech Republic, and other countries around the world.

What You'll Learn:

The goal of the Art and Architecture combination program is to give students an opportunity to explore French and Czech art and architecture and develop a better understanding of the various periods and styles that have helped shape urban development in France, the Czech Republic, and many other countries. Through special courses focusing on architecture and art history and cultural activities that allow students to explore Paris and Prague from a variety of perspectives, students will be able to compare and contrast French and Czech art and architectural styles and be able to explain and describe the influence that these two countries have had on Europe and other parts of the world.

Academic Program:

The summer Art and Architecture combination program involves two 3 ½ week academic sessions and is designed for students with an interest in European architecture, art history, and art. The program combines separate courses focusing on French and Czech art and architecture, allowing students to compare and contrast architectural styles, art movements, and explore the ways in which French and Czech architecture and art have impacted urban landscapes today.

During Session I, students on this program will study alongside students enrolled in the Paris Language and Culture summer program. Established in 2004, the Paris Language and Culture summer program is designed for students who want to improve their knowledge of French language and culture, while learning about Paris and France through classes, activities, and excursions, or who wish to explore certain focused themes including philosophy, art history, Francophone culture, cinema, and French sign language.

During Session II, students on this program will study alongside students enrolled in the Prague Central European Studies summer program. Established in 2003, this program exposes students to the rich cultural, historical, and social heritage of Prague through the exploration of its art, film, architectural roots, society, and dynamic history. This journey gives students a unique opportunity to witness the force of a society that embraces its transition from a communist past to the ever-changing political and social present, along with the opportunity to learn about Prague's development.

Academic Culture:

The program is made up of two 3 ½ week sessions. Courses typically meet every morning or afternoon, Monday to Friday, for three hours, with structured outings and one required overnight study tour each session. The courses are designed for U.S. undergraduates, so the teaching and learning methods will be familiar to participants. Moreover, all professors in the summer program are accustomed to teaching U.S. students.

CIEE Paris courses are intellectually rigorous, and students should expect to be active participants in all aspects of the class, keeping up with daily reading assignments and participating in class discussions. In addition to lectures and discussions, classes may include film viewings and outings related to the themes of the class.

There are significant differences between the U.S. educational system and the Czech system. Students must be aware that a high degree of self-motivation and self-discipline is required, and that independent learning and active participation in class are necessary for achieving satisfactory academic performance. Resources such as library holdings in English and Internet access may be limited, and students may need to seek these resources outside of the CIEE Study Center in public libraries and other Charles University faculties. Professors use both the classroom as well as the city as a direct resource for their teaching. Lectures are supplemented with class excursions and guest lectures related to class topics. Students should be prepared to spend two-thirds of each weekday in class or in class-related activities.