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Indigenous Women's Literature

Course Location: Bolivia
Course Dates: June 1 – June 27, 2009
Academic Credits: 3 credits in English (ENGL 387), 3 credits in Service Learning (SRVL 493) through West Virginia University
Academic Instructor: Cari Carpenter, Assistant Professor of English, West Virginia Universty

Course Description
This class offers students the opportunity to study indigenous women's literature while living in the beautiful Andean Mountain region of South America. Our readings span the American continent, from Canada to South America, since for indigenous peoples "America" is not limited to the United States. We will focus on the literature of the Quechuan people in a comparative context with other indigenous literature throughout the Americas. In considering the various stories that indigenous women tell, we will address a number of questions: how do these authors challenge and revise stereotypes of Indians? How should we read Native literature, given its diversity and its roots in oral traditions? In what ways do these stories complement and complicate feminist and critical race studies? How is our understanding of Native literature, American literature, and America itself reconfigured when we challenge the geo-political borders of the United States?

As a global service-learning course, this class challenges you to synthesize your academic learning and personal reflections as well as translate your experience for an audience. Here experiential learning as a global citizen is as important as conventional learning. While in Bolivia, students will take an active participation in the life of the host community, including attending cultural events and completing a 40-hour service activity. This community-driven service may include teaching English literature, working with various nonprofit community organizations, and/or conducting oral histories with local residents. The beauty of the landscape, the transformative power of literature, and the experience of living and learning in a unique culture are evidence of the exceptional educational opportunity offered by this Amizade course.

Program Fee: $3549 (before 12/31)* $3799 (before 2/15)* * $4049 (after 2/15) Apply Now!

The Program Fee includes room and board, local programming, staffing, and transportation, university credits, international health insurance, a contribution to the local community organization, and recreational and cultural activities.

Students are responsible for international airfare, passports and/or visas, immunizations and any books or required course materials.

* Students who are accepted and hold their place with a non-refundable $500 deposit by December 31, 2008 receive a $500 tuition discount.

** Students who are accepted and hold their place with a non-refundable $500 deposit by February 15, 2009 receive a $250 tuition discount.