What is Project Ecuador?

Project Ecuador is a University of Denver International Service Learning Program that combines service work with academic study in Ecuador during the winter interterm. The mission of Project Ecuador: Education in American Democracies is to provide students with direct experience in global and multicultural educational practices through a service-learning partnership in Ecuadorian and Denver-area schools. As students gain an international perspective on varied pedagogical practices through direct service and interaction with American and Ecuadorian citizens, the schools will reciprocally gain support and/or assistance with program development or implementation and other areas to be determined by their institutional goals.

This three week program will begin in Quito. After a few days of orientation, the group will travel to Borja in "El Oriente" (Amazon Basin) to begin service in two local schools.

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What is ISL?

International service learning is:

      volunteer service united with academic study for credit;
      a means of integrating classroom theory with active and          reflective learning in the world;
      a way to help others while immersing yourself in          another culture;
      an opportunity for dual exchange of ideas with people          from other countries; and
      a challenging and rewarding way to learn and gain          international experience.

Simply put, it's your chance to put classroom learning to work in the field, to get an inside glimpse of life in another culture, and to learn from others as you engage in service alongside them.

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Who may apply?

Project Ecuador 2008 will be open to all graduate students regardless of their prior travel, academic or work experience. Mature, self-motivated individuals who demonstrate a positive attitude, initiative, flexibility, and strong interpersonal skills are invited to apply. Undergraduates with a strong interest in education may be considered on a case by case basis. University of Denver students are given priority over non DU students. If the program is not filled with DU students, we will consider accepting non-DU students, but students must be available for all on-campus meetings prior to departure. Please see the important dates link at the top of the page for more information.

A background in Spanish language is not required; however, some knowledge of Spanish is highly recommended.

Students are selected based on the quality of written applications, an interview, and a recommendation (see the application form).

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Academic Component

Course Name: Project Ecuador: Education in American Democracies ABRD, Four (4) Quarter Credits

This program is directed by Cynthia Hazel, Assistant Professor, Child, Family, and School Psychology. Project Ecuador will establish a cooperative, educational, and reciprocal partnership between the University of Denver and local Ecuadorian schools, and between the University of Denver and local Denver schools.
Students will contrast the theory and practice of education in two American democracies, Ecuador and the United States; particular emphasis will be placed on the concepts of globalization, colonization, and sustainability.

Students will explore topics such as:
• History, culture, and current political issues in Ecuador
• Globalization and its impact on educational systems
• Local non-profit organizations that work toward empowerment of indigenous citizens

Service Component
Students are required to provide at least 10 hours of service in a U.S. school and at least 50 hours of service in a minimum of two Ecuadorian schools. Project Ecuador provides the opportunity to work with both general and special ed populations in rural Ecuadorian schools. Students will assist with special education curriculum in Escuela Especial del Chaco, and with English conversation practice in Escuela de Borja.

Students are required to:
• Participate in an orientation retreat during fall quarter
• Attend and participate in academic seminars during fall quarter, and one upon return to Denver during winter quarter
• Read the assigned readings and do written assignments
• Participate in classroom and reflection sessions while in Ecuador
• Volunteer approximately 50 hours in Ecuador and 10 hours in Denver
• Keep a journal documenting their volunteer experience in Ecuador
• Produce a portfolio that integrates classroom learning with    in-country experience (due in January 2009)

Draft Course syllabus

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Who to contact?

Cynthia Hazel, Project Director
Assistant Professor, Child, Family, and School Psychology
Phone: 303-871-2961
Email: chazel@du.edu
Portfolio: http://portfolio.du.edu/chazel

Stephanie Figueroa, Project Coordinator
Email: stephanie.figueroa@du.edu

Karyn Sweeney
Advisor, International Service Learning
Phone: 1-303-871-4762
Email: ksweene3@du.edu

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