CCSA - Belize Geography Summer 2015

Belize: an English-speaking country in the heart of Central America, dotted with magnificent archaeological remnants of the Mayan people and populated by their descendants, and is home to one of the greatest concentrations of biodiversity on the planet. Join us as we explore the physical/historical geography and cultural landscapes of Belize through visits to cayes, islands, reefs, mountains, rainforests and ruins. A special feature of this program is the opportunity to snorkel at a World Heritage site.

The Cooperative Center for Study Abroad is a consortium of American colleges and universities, which jointly offers study abroad programs and internships in English-speaking regions. A not-for-profit organization, CCSA is headquartered at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Students from any accredited institution are welcome to apply.

GEOSCIENCES
From Mayan Ruins to Caribbean Reefs: the Geography of Middle America
Dr. Christine Mathenge from Austin Peay State University

Nothing compares to mastering geography while on location. There’s a chance to see cacao farming and chocolate making, citrus farming and hot sauce production, banana farming and export operations as well as observe other Belizean economic connections with the global market place. Students learn about spatial distributions of landforms including coral-based islands, the coastal plain, the striking Maya mountains and the interlocking network of rivers and creeks including the Belize River. The physical geography component of the course includes a range of fascinating vegetation types like mangrove swamps, rainforests and pine savannas. This course uniquely combines elements of physical features, economic linkages and intriguing cultural geography of Middle America while traveling in Belize. Additionally, journaling about ordinary Creole, Garifuna, Maya, Spanish and English cultural landscapes will sum up reflections on overall travels in Belize. Tentative field trips include snorkeling excursions on South Water Caye, tours of majestic ruins of highland Maya at Blue Creek, visits to Dangriga—one of Garinagu cultural capitals complete with private drumming lessons.

3 cr. hrs., LD/UD

English