Costa Rica: The Secret to Happiness

Course description

This course, with an optional study abroad component, examines the cultural, social, and linguistic make-up of present-day Costa Rica to address the question: how do you achieve happiness? The course also focuses on cultural competency and understanding and experiencing different cultures. Students will reflect on their lived experiences, challenge assumptions, and strive to become better global citizens. The travel portion of the course takes place over a 2-week period during intersession. Online (asynchronous and synchronous) sessions are held before (5 weeks) and after the trip (3 weeks) to ensure students are prepared and can engage meaningfully with their peers and with Indigenous Knowledge Holders.For degree students, this course may count toward the Foreign Languages (Spanish option) minor, Indigenous Studies minor, or as a degree elective in Global Cultures or Humanities. For diploma students, this course may count as a General Education elective (Arts in Society or Social and Cultural Understanding themes).

Course details