The GLA Experience

Curriculum

Course Descriptions

Language, Culture & Society:

This class provides students a cultural context to the country and includes an overview of the cultures and ethnic groups within the country. Classes are taught by local teachers and combines classroom language lessons and discussions with visits to social and cultural organizations.

In countries where English is not widely spoken, students will focus on acquiring or improving foreign language skills. In Costa Rica, conversational Spanish will be taught; in Brazil, conversational Portuguese. Since English is widely spoken in South Africa, Ghana and India, emphasis will be placed on understanding the different cultural and ethnic groups in the country.

Discussion, Reflection & Action:

This is a time for each small group to meet with their Mentor and discuss their experience in the community service project and reflect on the issues they are encountering. Mentors facilitate discussion and debate and push students to think critically about their experience. Students are asked to maintain a journal of their thoughts and also asked to prepare a final presentation about an issue they have experienced during their program.

In addition to discussion and reflection, Mentors lead discussion on leadership and do leadership development activities with the group.