Wooster In Thailand

December 26, 2013 - January 10, 2014, and Spring 2014

To be human is to think about questions of meaning, transcendence, purpose, and relationship. This course will explore the context that shapes some of the ways that women of Asian heritage ask these questions. The course begins with an experience of dislocation through an immersion experience in Thailand and Myanmar. This will provide students with a taste of the context from which Asian and Asian American feminist theologies emerge. Students' direct engagement with the lived realities of Thai and Burmese women forms the core of the course.

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 and Myanmar will provide substantive experience and reflection on the impact of context on our lives and the theologies that emerge.

Upon our return we will consider ways in which our histories, social constructs, economies, dreams, faith, and aspirations are intertwined. We will also consider the ways that Asian American women’s experience informs their contribution to the feminist conversation.

Academics

Asian and Asian American Feminist Theology

Participation in Wooster in Thailand is by application only. Early applications are due by 5 p.m. on April 22, 2013 to the Course Director at Babcock Hall, Room 114. Interviews will be held April 27 and 29. Successful applicants will be notified through campus mail. Accepted students must register for THIRD WORLD FEMINIST THEOLOGIES for Spring 2014. The course is cross listed with Religious Studies and WGSS. One and a half credits. There will be THREE mandatory pre-departure group meetings in the fall of 2013.

Itinerary

(This itinerary is subject to change)

Day 1 - Thursday 12/26

Meet in Los Angeles

Day 2-4

Fly to Yangon, Myanmar (Orientation and team building)

Day 5-8

Interviews, lectures and field trips in Myanmar

Day 9

Travel to Chiang Mai, Thailand

Day 10-14

Interviews, lectures and field trips in Thailand

Day 15 - Thursday 1/9

Depart for home

Logistics

The total cost for the Wooster In Thailand program will be approximately $4,000 (subject to change). This fee includes round trip airfare from Los Angeles*, mandatory insurance, all lodging, food and transportation in-country, fees for site visits and all classes and lectures in Thailand and Myanmar. Financial assistance may be available.

Students are responsible for their own airfare to Los Angeles*, any passport and visa fees, vaccinations, and all incidentals and gifts purchased while abroad.

A $500 non-refundable deposit will be due May 6, 2013 to hold your place.

* Please arrive in Los Angeles by 10 pm. on December 26, 2013.