AUIP Fiji Short Program: Humans and the Environment (8 days/3 credits)

  Fiji

Nadi,  Sigatoka,  Suva

Term: Summer 
Dates: June 16 - 23, 2010; June 13 - 20, 2010 or July 8 - 15, 2010

Description: This 8-day, 3-credit experiential program uses the theme of sustainable development to explore the relationship between people and their natural environment. We explore the complex relationships between Fijian cultural practices, conservation of the natural environment, and eco-tourism. Despite several centuries of outside contact and a unique ethnic mix, traditional Fijian values and customs still flourish.

Our experiential education focuses on learning through guided action. We spend 2-days at the University of the South Pacific taking introductory lectures. This is followed by a 6-day field study which includes several days exploring the pristine coral reefs of the Mamanuca or Yasawa offshore islands and visits to traditional Fijian villages. Some additional pre-departure directed reading and independent study is required.

This program is designed as an optional extension for the AUIP short programs (3.5 weeks, 6 credits) in Australia and New Zealand (although it is also open to all students).

Objectives:

1. Understand the geography, ecology, natural history, and social and political contexts of the Fijian islands.
2. Understand the impacts of humans on the natural environment.
3. Develop a working understanding of traditional Fijian knowledge of the natural environment, such as in plant use and maritime and subsistence practices.
4. Be able to address relationships between human societies and their natural environments form multiple disciplinary perspectives and to develop a complex, multi-faceted and holistic view of human environment connections that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Highlights:
* AUIP is one of the few organizations that offers you the chance to explore the vibrant traditional culture and spectacular natural environment of Fiji.
* You will spend much of your time out in the field, visiting and observing Fiji first-hand. At AUIP, we believe that students learn from study abroad experiences both in and outside of the classroom.
* You will have the chance to snorkel through clear blue waters to see colorful coral reefs, visit white sand beaches on remote coral atolls, participate in a traditional kava ceremony, and learn from the leading experts in Pacific studies.
* You will learn from leading Fijian academics and professionals with expertise in subjects related to the People & Nature theme.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: USD 1,150

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants.

Participants Travel to Fiji Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 15 - 30

Scholarships are Available. For more information, please contact us.

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application

AUIP - American Universities International Programs's Mission Statement: The mission of AUIP is to nurture and foster a global citizenry that respects the diverse cultures and environments of the world in which we live. More specifically, we hope that students who participate in programs with AUIP are better prepared to use this global knowledge in their home community with both short-term and long-term implications. No prior knowledge of the subject areas or environmental issues is assumed, and the courses and programs are suitable for all undergraduate students.

Year Founded: 1971