Wooster In Thailand

December 29, 2011 - January 13, 2012, and Spring 2012

To be human is to think about questions of meaning, transcendence, purpose and relationship. This course on Asian and Asian American Feminist Theology will explore ways that women of Asian heritage are asking these questions.

The course will begin with an experience of dislocation through an immersion experience in Thailand. This will provide students with a taste of the context from which Asian and Asian American feminist theology emerges. Students' direct engagement with the lived realities of several Thai communities forms the core of a course that will use a case study approach. The second part of the course will take place at the College of Wooster during the regular semester. We will use the lens of sacred writing, theological discussion, and the immersion experience to better comprehend and appreciate the voice and perspectives that Asian and Asian American feminists bring to the larger liberation conversation.

The dual location will serve to deepen and embody the learning that takes place on both a personal and theoretical level. Our time in Thailand will provide substantive experience and reflection on the impact of context on our lives.

Academics

Asian and Asian American Feminist Theology

Wooster in Thailand Applications are due to Linda Morgan-Clement by NOON on September 12, 2011. Interviews will take place during the last two weeks of September 2011. (This may be accomplished through Skype, if necessary). Successful applicants will be notified through campus mail. Accepted students must register for ASIAN AND ASIAN AMERICAN FEMINIST THEOLOGY for Spring 2012. The course is cross listed with Religious Studies and WGSS. One credit. Wednesdays from 7-9 pm. December 2011 - there will be THREE mandatory pre-departure group meetings prior to finals week.

Itinerary

(This itinerary is subject to change)

Day 1 - Thursday 12/29

Fly into Bangkok

Day 2-5 - Friday 12/30 - Monday 1/2

In Chiang Mai: Hill Tribe museum, Wat (Temple) visit, cultural events

Day 6-10 - Tuesday 1/3 - Saturday 1/7

In Payap: meet with students there, prison visit, lectures on gender, sexuality, and on Thailand

Day 11-13 - Sunday 1/8 - Tuesday 1/10

With Hill Tribes

Day 14 - Wednesday 1/11

Day 15 - Thursday 1/12

In Bangkok (visit Patpong entertainment district)

Day 16 - Friday 1/13

Fly home

Logistics

Students will travel on their own to Bangkok, Thailand, arriving between 6 pm and midnight on December 29, 2011, and departing from Bangkok between 9 am and 1 pm on January 13, 2012. Fees for the trip range will range from $1,240 - $1,670, depending on the number of students traveling. This does not include the cost of international flights. Financial assistance may be available. Trip fees cover: airfare within Thailand, ground transportation and all meals in Thailand, accommodation (double or triple rooms), lecturer and speaker fees, special tours and a trip to a Thai rural village. Students are responsible for: airfare to and from Thailand, passport and visa fees, vaccinations and medical fees, incidentals and gifts purchased in Thailand.