Taiwan: Biodiversity, Agriculture and Culture of Taiwan

What's the scoop?

The objective of this unique study abroad experience is to explore, analyze and learn about biodiversity, agriculture and culture in Taiwan. Through hands-on activities, field trips and lectures, students will acquire a broad knowledge of the country's agriculture, biodiversity, and culture. At the end of their time abroad students will more fully understand global biodiversity and agriculture as well as have an increased understanding and appreciation for Taiwanese culture.

The course has been designed and is being offered by the National Taiwan University, College of Bioresources and Agriculture and is for those students who want to acquire a broad knowledge of the flora and fauna, agriculture, environmental issues, and culture of Taiwan. Students will also have the opportunity to attend classes for an introduction to the Chinese language. Field trips will expose the students to various ecological zones of Taiwan.

The program begins on June 23, 2012 and ends on July 22, 2012. Applications are due by March 15, 2012. Admissions for the program are made on a rolling basis, and applications will not be reviewed until they are complete. Early application is advisable.

What course will I take?

Accepted students will be enrolled in AGNR399T Biodiversity, Agriculture and Culture for four (4) credits from the University of Maryland.

Prior to traveling to Taiwan, students will be required to spend two class periods with the instructor to become familiar with expectations of the course, receive medical and safety briefings, and develop an initial awareness of Taiwanese culture. During the program, students will learn through cultural immersion with native students, faculty, and others within the general population and through participation in academic lectures, field trips, and guided tours. Excursions will be to areas of ecological significance, museums, and various institutes. Students will keep a daily journal and prepare a reflective paper which should discuss their perceptions of the agricultural, environmental and culture issues of Taiwan prior to this study abroad and how these perceptions may have changed during and after discussions and observations during the course. Students will be evaluated on their participation and reflective paper.

Where will I stay?

To further their immersion, students will be housed at the hostels of the respective universities.

Who's here to help?

Faculty Director: Dr. Richard Weismiller is a soil scientist with 45 years of experience. He has been active in environmental issues, soil conservation and water quality issues. He has taught courses in soil and water pollution, land use management and remote sensing of natural resources. He still teaches a video conference course in collaboration with students at Moscow State University of Environmental Engineering in Moscow, Russia and the University of Maryland students studying environmental and culture issues in both countries. Dr. Weismiller has traveled in more than 25 countries throughout the world.

For general questions or assistance with applying, contact Conrad Zeutenhorst, the Program Assistant and Advisor in Education Abroad.

What are the costs?

Program fee for Summer 2012: $TBD
Please see the "Budget Sheet" link above for an estimate of the total cost including airfare, personal expenses and other items not included in the program fee.

The program fee is collected in three separate payments:

$50 application fee (non-refundable) - Payable online at the time of application via MyEA.
$250 deposit (non-refundable), due within 10 business days of admission - Payable online via MyEA. Applicants: if admitted to the program, you are responsible for paying this deposit, which is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Remaining balance of program fee - Charged to the student's UMD account upon registration for the course.

Withdrawal and Refund: Refund of monies paid to the University by or for Applicant for participation in the Program, excluding the non-refundable application fee and deposit, shall be made upon withdrawal from the Program only in the event that Applicant gives written notice to the University of his or her withdrawal at least eight weeks prior to the start date of the program.

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For more information, contact Tim Lapanne

Last updated: 01/25/2012