WGS 3360 - Fieldwork in the American Southwest: Classroom without Walls

Credits: 4

In this course, students will learn about one of the most culturally and geographically diverse areas in the U.S, the desert Southwest. Focus will be on the diverse landscape and people. In the classroom and in the field, students will study the unique archeology, ecology, history, and culture of the southwest. The course will be followed by a 7-10 day field trip to the Southwest, where students will visit various sites including Native American pueblos, Dine’ (Navajo) Nation, a working ranch, nature centers, galleries, cultural centers, and historic and archeological sites. Students will learn by doing from a variety of Native American, Chicana/o and Anglo southwestern writers, artists, storytellers, activists, cowgirls and cowboys, and environmentalists. Students will have an opportunity to create art, engage in social justice and environmental work. The course also focuses on the ways in which various came together and interacted, as well as their relationship to the land and the sacred. An extra travel fee is required for this course.

Fulfills: SOSC, D and X in LS Core.