Sample Itinerary

SFS 2070 Language, Culture, and Society of Panama (2 credits)

This course contains two distinct but integrated modules. The Spanish language module offers listening, oral, and written practice of the Spanish language at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels of proficiency. Students engage in oral and written grammar and vocabulary exercises, and develop Spanish language skills and tools required for their research projects. The sociocultural module helps students to develop a more refined understanding of Panamanian culture and the various communities with which we work. Students participate in lectures, field exercises, and other activities—all of which teach them strategies and skills for working with people in a community-based research context and help them to assist with community extension projects.

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SFS 3020 Environmental Policy and Socioeconomic Values - Panama (4 credits)

This course provides a critical look at the livelihood strategies of island residents, the land use and environmental regulations in place, and actual or recommended responses by society (including government, civil society, and individuals) aimed at mitigating pressures and restoring balance in the environment. Students gain an understanding of the local perceptions of conservation of natural resources and the pressure points between development and preservation. Students measure and examine the economic importance of tourism along with the habitat degradation due to tourism. Gauging environmental awareness and literacy of tourists helps students to understand their impact on the future of endangered island ecosystems that will be put under continuous pressure with the climbing number of visitors.

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SFS 3740 Principles of Resource Management - Panama (4 credits)

This course examines terrestrial ecology and land-management principles and practices including timber and non-timber forest products. Students examine land use and land cover change—especially in regard to increasing pastureland and plantation land under cultivation (mostly banana) in close proximity to the ocean and important watershed habitats. Students also investigate how climate change is affecting natural resources and livelihoods on land, sea, and in forests.

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SFS 3790 Tropical Coastal Ecology (4 credits)

This course introduces students to the ecology of coastal and marine ecosystems. Students learn to identify the major groups of dominant species in these habitats and understand the complexity of ecosystem functions in a delicate island-based marine context. The concept of island biogeography helps to frame the examination of the status of tropical island systems, especially those prone to perturbations related to climate change. Students conduct field exercises in many coastal habitats including reefs, mangroves, intertidal zones, grass beds, and estuaries.

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SFS 4910 Directed Research - Panama (4 credits)

This course prepares students to distinguish hidden assumptions in scientific approaches and separate fact from interpretation, cause from correlation, and advocacy from objectivity. Students learn specific tools including: experimental design; field techniques; basic descriptive statistics; and parametric and non-parametric quantitative analysis. Emphasis is placed on succinct scientific writing, graphic and tabular presentation of results, and effective delivery of oral presentations.

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