January 2008

Professor Nancy F. Smith 

Course Description:

During January 2008, we will travel to the islands of Micronesia, focusing on Pohnpei, Guam, Yap, and Palau, over a period of 19 days to experience the culture, natural history, and ecology of Micronesia's diverse islands.  These islands offer unique opportunities to study the ecology of coral reef communities, to understand the evolution and geology of the islands, and to study the culture and history of the Micronesian peoples, including indigenous, colonial, and post-colonial cultures.  We will explore Micronesia by hiking, snorkeling, SCUBA (if you are certified), sea kayaking, visiting historical and archeological sites, and participating in cultural activities such as a Sakau ceremony and visiting local villages.  During the winter term, each student will be expected to read articles (to be provided by Professor Smith) that pertain directly to the places we are visiting and to be actively engaged in all activities.  Following our travel excursion, each student will make a photographic journal of their travel experience.  Evaluation will be based on a daily journal (reflections of the assigned readings and travel experience), photographic journal, and participation.  This course fulfills the Environmental Perspective.

Travel Highlights:

Sakau Ceremony, Nan Madol, Kepirohi Waterfalls, Exploring town of Kolonia (Pohnpei)

Chamorro Village Night Market (Guam)

Two Lover's Leap, Cultural Center, Talofofo Waterfalls, Yokoi Cave (Guam)

War in the Pacific Museum, Piti Guns, Asan Beach (Guam) 

Stone Money Bank, Evening Cultural Show, Visit villages (Yap)

Mariculture Demonstration Center, Belau National Museum (Palau)

Kayaking Rock Islands, Snorkel Jellyfish Lake (Palau)

SCUBA diving (Pohnpei, Guam, Yap, Palau) 

Eligibility:

This course is open to science and non-science majors.  Swimming ability is required and students must have completed the Eckerd College swim test.  Although SCUBA certification is not required, it is highly recommended to fully enjoy the underwater environment.  Students must be in excellent health.

Costs:

The cost for this winter term is $6,575.  It includes round trip flights to and from Micronesia, flights among islands, lodgings, meals, ground transportation, admission to all sites and museums, gratuities, International Student Identity Card (ISIC), departure taxes, reef fees, and all activities including SCUBA.  Tanks and weights are included with SCUBA costs; all other gear must be brought with the diver.  Both Nitrox and compressed air are available (no additional cost).  Thus, the only additional cost would be your personal expenses (souvenirs, camera, diving gear).

Contact:

All students interested must contact Professor Nancy Smith for an interview.  Qualified students are selected on a first-come-first-serve basis.  Course is limited to 12 students.