ON THIS PAGE Educ. Approach Classroom Time Offerings Credit Faculty

Educational Approach
In accordance with the mission and goals of Earth Education International, offerings aim to empower individuals and communities to take action in their personal and collective lives in helping to contribute to sustainable global stewardship. Academic study is thus interdisciplinary in nature, provides real-world experience in the field, and facilitates multicultural learning and self-exploration. Because students often come from a variety of academic and field-related backgrounds, cooperative and self-directed learning are emphasized. Every participant brings particular interests, questions, and skills that enrich the learning experience for all. Each group thus forms a learning community in and of itself. Moreover, participants will get to know their instructors on a personal level. Faculty members are accessible and eager to answer students' questions, in the classroom and in the field.

Classroom & Field Study Time
Because course offerings emphasize applied learning, substantial field study experiences are provided alongside time spent in the classroom. In-class activities include regular faculty lectures, as well as guest speakers, discussions, round-tables, panels, seminars, workshops, debates, and student presentations. Time spent outside the classroom may include field trips, educational exercises, field research, and/or other appropriate assignments. These activities take place at a variety of different sites during any given course. During these visits, participants are provided with a unique opportunity to learn from, and share with local stakeholders. These sites serve as case studies that taken together provide a real-world context for understanding the complex regional, national and global issues associated with working toward a sustainable future.

Offerings
In order to facilitate achievement of stated goals, EEI offerings include a variety of experiential academic learning programs offered in collaboration with partner institutions. These include short courses and semester-long programs, as well as study tours associated with specific courses at partner institutions.

The following offerings are open to students from any university or major, as well as non-students:

Semester Abroad in 'Sustainable Global Stewardship'
Intensive three-month spring semester program, February through April. Fifteen credits provided through our partner Humboldt State University.

Summer Course - 'Deep Ecology & Sustainable Living'
Two week short course in June/July. Three credits provided by our partner Humboldt State University.

Winter Course - Costa Rica: 'Ecosystems, Conservation & Community'
Two week short course in early January. Three credits provided by our partner George Mason University.

In addition to regular courses and programs, we also facilitate specialized study tours for students enrolled in associated courses at partner universities.

2. Service-learning opportunities (one week+)
A. Volunteer work. Participants have the opportunity to provide service to different environmental and social projects at various field study sites.
B. Field research work. Participants have the opportunity to provide assistance in a wide variety of research projects at the planning, design, and implementation phases in areas such as community development, appropriate technologies and environmental conservation.

3. Special Projects
EEI services also include various special projects including educational exchanges, customized immersion programs, educational tourism/eco-tourism services, and providing logistical in-country support to partners.

Academic Credit
Credit for participation in EEI offerings is generally available through the Extended Education office of Humboldt State University in California, or other partner university where application is made directly. An additional fee may apply, depending on the specific course or program (whether or not credit is included). Alternatively, academic credit can be issued by the University of San José in Costa Rica. Although a transcript from those institutions is commonly accepted by numerous universities in other countries, each participant is responsible for making appropriate arrangements for transfer of that credit to their home institution. Please note that it is strongly recommended that this be done before participation in the program if this is a prerequisite to participation. Because guidelines differ, it is necessary to contact the academic advisor at the home institution (where you go to school) to answer this question with certainty.

Faculty Credentials
All Earth Education International faculty are exceptional teachers, advisors, and role models with a passion for their work. Most have their Doctorate, or other terminal degree, but all have a common belief in the importance of hands-on learning and are available to assist participants in any way possible to facilitate a successful academic experience. Furthermore, because most are multicultural and/or have lived in more than one culture themselves, they understand and are keenly attuned to personal challenges participants may encounter. In contrast to typical university life on campus, they are available outside of class time to provide help as needed. For more details, see the Staff section of the 'About Us' page.

.Field Study Top of Page Spring.