ON THIS PAGE Approach Class Time Courses Internships Credit Faculty

Educational Approach
In accordance with EEI mission and goals, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality personalized hands-on learning experiences in small groups of no more than about fifteen participants. Emphasis is placed on learning in the field, volunteer service-learning work, and cultural immersion. Offerings are interdisciplinary in nature, provide real-world experiences, and facilitate multicultural learning and self-exploration. Because participants often come from a variety of backgrounds, cooperative and self-directed learning are emphasized. We believe that each person brings particular interests, questions, and skills that enrich the learning experience for all. Moreover, participants will get to know their instructors and guides on a personal level. Faculty are accessible and eager to answer questions, in the classroom and in the field.

Classroom & Field Study Time
Because our 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.

Courses & Programs
EEI offerings include a variety of experiential learning courses and programs in Costa Rica/Central America in collaboration with partner institutions. These include short courses and a condensed semester abroad program, as well as specialized 'study tours'. Click on appropriate link for more information. NOTE: Links will not be active if there is no upcoming course in that slot.

NOTE: ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ARE OPEN TO PARTICIPANTS (STUDENTS AND NON-STUDENTS) WORLDWIDE.

Spring: 'Sustainable Global Stewardship Program'
A condensed interdisciplinary three month spring semester program from mid-February through mid-April of each year. Twelve to fifteen units of academic credit are provided from the Universidad de San José (Costa Rica).

Summer: 'International Environmental Issues & Globalization'
A twelve day short course offered in early summer of each year in conjunction with our partner Humboldt State University (USA).

Winter: 'Sustainable Living & Deep Ecology'
An eleven-day Winter seminar offered in early January of each year. Three units of academic credit are available through the Universidad de San José (Costa Rica).

In addition to regular courses and programs, we also facilitate specialized study tours with Associate Partner institutions.

Internships
In addition to service-learning at various field sites during regular course offerings (and assistance in arranging additional volunteer work for participants and alumni), volunteer internship opportunities are available directly with EEI. Some short-term opportunities may be available in our office in Costa Rica assisting with various projects related to sustainability and experiential education (e.g., internet promotion, research & other special projects). In addition, there are often on-going opportunities to volunteer or do an internship with EEI remotely from home online. Please contact us if you may be interested.

Academic Credit
Credit for participation in EEI offerings is available as a transcript from the University of San José in Costa Rica, and/or through other international partner institutions as appropriate. Although such an approved Costa Rican university transcript is universally accepted by other universities worldwide, each participant is responsible for making appropriate arrangements for transfer 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
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.

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