What is Project El Salvador?

Project El Salvador is a University of Denver International Service Learning Program that combines service work with academic study in El Salvador during the winter interterm. The program focuses on El Salvador’s transition to democracy. The program begins in the United States during fall quarter with an overnight retreat and several class sessions during which students will learn about the history and culture of El Salvador. Through analytical essays, reflective journal writing, and group discussion, students will be able to apply academic knowledge and theories to actual experiences in El Salvador. A variety of themes will be explored, including education, development issues, environmental problems, gender roles, human rights, politics, and conflict resolution.

The program will be based in San Salvador, with opportunities to explore and understand life in smaller, rural communities. The service experience will deepen and expand the students’ understanding of Salvadoran culture while serving the needs of the community in a collaborative manner.

If you want to read more about Project El Salvador please click here to download program director Zulema Lopez’s information on Project El-Salvador.

Read the experiences of 2007 Participants! Click here...

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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 El Salvador 2008 will be open to all undergraduate and 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. 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.

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 El Salvador: Transition to Democracy” ABRD 3514, Five (5) Quarter Credits

Taught by Zulema Lopez, Department of Languages and Literatures, Project El Salvador will offer students an opportunity to gain cultural awareness and knowledge of the rich and polemical history of El Salvador, from pre-Columbian cultures to the 21st century. Students will gain an understanding of the various ways in which politics and economics interact in the region.

Students will explore topics such as:
• Positive and negative impacts of globalization on a small, developing nation
• Challenges faced by citizens of developing countries
• Environmental issues
• The role of the Catholic Church
• Democratization processes
• Politics and conflict resolution
• Theory and practice of service learning

Service Component
While in El Salvador, students will perform at least 60 hours of volunteer service (approximately 4 hours/day). Service work will provide a unique insight into various aspects of Salvadoran society and an opportunity to witness firsthand how communities are striving to meet immediate needs while constructing long-term sustainable solutions to the problems of poverty, underdevelopment, and the lack of social justice. Service projects are coordinated in conjunction with Fundacion Circulo Solidario, an NGO that works with health, education, and community development.

Students are required to:
• Participate in an orientation retreat.
• Attend and participate in four 3-hour academic seminars to be held during Fall Quarter.
• Participate in guest speaker presentations, reflection sessions, and excursions while in El Salvador.
• Complete assigned readings and written assignments.
• Volunteer approximately 60 hours in El Salvador.
• Keep a journal documenting their volunteer experience in
El Salvador.
• Produce a portfolio that integrates classroom learning with in-country experience.
• Attend a re-entry session upon return to Colorado.

Guest speakers and educational excursions
Students will have the opportunity to learn from a number of guest speakers while in El Salvador. Potential speakers include government officials and political party representatives, peasant community leaders and organizers, environmental activists and policy makers, liberation theologians and practitioners, feminist activists and scholars, and human rights activists.
In addition to the fieldwork during volunteer service, students will have the opportunity to learn from visit a number of sites of cultural interested. Possible excursions may include:
• Joya de Cerén (Maya Archeological site)
• Parque Nacional Montecristo-El Trifinio
• Ruinas de Tazumal
• Fair Trade coffee cooperative
• Ciudad Segundo Montes.

Course syllabus (2008 syllabus coming soon!)

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Who to contact?

Zulema Lopez, Project Director
Lecturer, Languages and Literatures
Email: zlopez@du.edu

Michelle Doherty, 2008 Project Coordinator

Email: michelle.doherty@du.edu

Karyn Sweeney, 2007 Project Coordinator
Advisor, International Service Learning
Phone: 1-303-871-4762
Email: karyn.sweeney@du.edu

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