Class Descriptions

For more information on any of the classes or the trip in general please contact any of the people teaching on this trip:

** JUST ADDED!**
BIOL 2950 or BIOL 4950 Conservation Biology: Invasive Species of the
South Pacific Islands: Prerequisite BIOL 1107 and 1108: Dr Donna Wear
This class will begin with an introduction to the concepts of biodiversity and conservation. We will learn about the mission of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) by investigating the economic and ecologic impacts that invasive species have in our own country. In Fiji, New Zealand and Australia we will visit some of the areas most affected by invasive species and learn from researchers what the IUCN and its affiliated agencies are doing to eradicate invasive species in the Pacific Island Nations.

HUMN 2950 or ENGL 2950 Cultures of the South Pacific: Dr Karen Aubrey
We will study the philosophical and religious beliefs of the indigenous peoples of Fiji, the Maori of New Zealand, and the Aborigines in Australia as revealed in their myths and legends. In addition, we will see how these ideas are brought to expression in the music and art customs of each culture by experiencing such things as traditional dance rituals, connections to the native landscape, drumming, tattooing rites, and sacred locations. Though focus will be on the ancient traditions, the course will also include a look at modern influences in these cultures. 3 hr credit (permission required).

SOCI 1160 Social Problems
An analytical and critical approach to the study of modern social problems.


SOCI 4950 or CRJU 4950 Comparative Criminology: Dr. Kim Davies
Email: kdavies@aug.edu N218 Allgood Hall
This class is designed to provide students with a systematic cross-cultural analysis and overview of crime and criminal justice systems in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. Students will examine various aspects of crime, law, police, courts, and corrections in these countries and contrast them with those in the United States. Cultural and social factors contributing to the similarities and differences will also be examined. 3 hrs

SOCI 4950 Sociology of Education: Ms. Lorraine Evans
Email: levans9@aug.edu Office: N208 Allgood Hall
This course develops a sociological awareness of the Pacific Rim countries of Fiji, New Zealand and Australia, focusing specifically on the education systems of each country. Through observation, participation, sociological analysis and critical reflection, students will understand how the values and norms of each society underlie the processes and dynamics of schooling manifest in each country. Moreover, students will recognize similarities and differences between the schooling systems studied and the education system in the United States. 3 hrs

EDTD 6363 Sociology of Education: Ms Lorraine Evans
As above. 3 hrs

SOWK 4950 Comparative Social Welfare Systems: Dr. Holly Carter
Email: hcarter1@aug.edu Office: N224 Allgood Hall
This course will focus on how societies provide different types of services offered in the three countries- Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia. The services will include heath care, welfare, and child care. The course will include readings to help understand the nature of the care offered in these countries and field trips to agencies and facilities. We hope to both see service agencies in action as well as speak to social service professionals. 3 hrs

MINF 4950 Study Abroad - International Business Technologies, Fiji , Australia and New Zealand : Ms. Mary Filpus- Luyckz, Mr. Mark Brown
Email: mfilpusl@aug.edu Office E348
Email: mbrown30@aug.edu Office E347
We will travel to Fiji, Australia and New Zealand for two weeks and study the culture and its effect on business technology. We will concentrate on the following industries: retail, restaurant, tourist, hospitality and transportation. 3 hrs