Insofar as possible, Spanish is the language of instruction across the curriculum. Independent Study Project Core Course Orientation and field trips Cultural orientation is stressed in lectures and discussions on topics such as social conditions in Latin America, cultural stereotypes and the problems of living abroad. Throughout the semester, the academic program is complemented by field trips which allow students to explore the diverse human and physical geography of the country. Spanish Grammar, Conversation and Culture Instruction at the ACM center is provided by experienced Costa Rican teachers working under the direction of Eduardo Estevanovich.
Instructors rotate among small classes to expose students to several native speakers.
Core Course Student choose between two courses, taught by local experts, that deal with contemporary issues in economics, politics and society. As a central part of the course, during weeks 8-15, students undertake a major independent study project. Although the classes are held in Spanish whenever possible, papers and conferences with instructors may be in either Spanish or English, depending on the student s preference. This overview of modern Costa Rican society features discussions of geography, history, religion, social life and ethnicity. Readings are drawn from literature and the social sciences.