Social and Political Transformation in Ecuador

Location: Ecuador: Quito

Term: Winter

Dates: January

Higher Education Consortium for Urban Affairs

2233 University Avenue West, Suite 210 St. Paul, MN 55114-1629 United States

Description

This course explores socioeconomic issues in Ecuador as manifested in the country's growing inequality and the proliferation of new social movements to address this crisis. Particular emphasis will be placed on indigenous rights, gender equality, the protection and management of natural resources, and Ecuador's new constitution. Students compare and contrast the Ecuadorian experience with developments in other parts of Latin America.

Ecuador is an ideal setting for this kind of inquiry, presenting a complex scenario of social and economic phenomena. What's more, a mix of indigenous and European cultural and political institutions, as well as a division between a growing leftist movement and a historically conservative middle and upper class, makes it a microcosm of the wider Andean region. Students gain a firsthand perspective on these dynamics with field work and NGO site visits in and around the beautiful capital city of Quito and in more distant rural communities.

Highlights

The program will be conducted in English. Students are not required to have Spanish proficiency to participate. Lodging is arranged in family homestays, allowing for cultural exchange. Most host families will have at least one family member who speaks English, and in homes where that is not the case, students who have Spanish-language ability will be paired with students who have none. HECUA will also provide translators to assist during site visits and with guest lecturers who speak no English.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$:

Please contact HECUA for current pricing

Cost Includes:

Cost Include Description:

Air travel, ground travel, housing, most meals, excursions & events, reading materials

Credit Available

no

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participant.

Typical Living Arrangements
  • Home-stays

Participants Travel to Ecuador

in Groups

Application Process Involves
  • Essay
  • Letters of Reference
  • Online Application plus Application Assessment
  • Transcript
Higher Education Consortium for Urban Affairs's Mission Statement

HECUA is an organization of 18 liberal arts colleges, universities and associations dedicated to education for social justice. Together we shape academically rigorous, study-abroad and off-campus study programs that address the most pressing issues in our neighborhoods, nations and world. This unique educational collaboration engages students, faculty and practitioners in learning that generates knowledge and tools for social transformation and community building. At HECUA we learn by seeing, reflecting and acting with others. HECUA specializes in integrating theory and practice, bringing together key disciplines that equip students to be active citizens and leaders - locally and globally.

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