Field Studies Programs
A new movement within the study abroad opportunity for college students is the “field studies programs” which take students out of the traditional classroom emphasizing interdisciplinary field study throughout the world in such areas as: environmental studies, public health, social justice, human rights, the natural sciences and cultural studies.
SIT Study Abroad: “offers a wide variety of programs throughout the world, with each program’s curriculum designed around a theme. This theme, examined in an interdisciplinary manner, provides a central focus for the classroom studies and independent study project”—within the arts, cultural studies, global concerns, development and environmental studies, gender issues, peace and conflict studies, and social justice.
The International Partners for Service-Learning and Leadership (IPSL): “programs integrate academic studies with volunteer service and full cultural immersion to give the student a deeper, more meaningful study abroad experience.” IPHL aims to help the student “become more civically engaged, inter-culturally literate, internationally aware, and responsive to the needs of others.”
The School of Field Studies: Environmental Field Study Abroad (SFS): “students work together with host communities around the world to learn real environmental problem solving skills. Hands-on field experience, practical and transferable research skills, and cross-cultural awareness are only a few of the benefits of [SFS]’s programs.” Students will have the opportunity to “develop leadership skills, build self-confidence, and discover the vital role [they] can play in the larger global community.