Health and Community Development Placement with TASO - Uganda

Health and Community Development Placement with TASO – Uganda

Program Overview

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all UBC students, psychology and sociology students may be especially suited for this placement. One to two placement spots are available.

Program Description

This program is placed in Uganda.

TASO has 11 different centers across the country – exact placement location is to be determined at a later date.

The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) is a Ugandan NGO founded over 25 years ago that has been at the forefront of HIV/AIDS responses on the continent. Across the 11 centers, the organization employs hundreds of people who attend to clinical as well as psychological needs for clients and families.

Interns would support a particular project that is focusing on the economic empowerment and self-esteem in adolescents and women through a sustainable livelihoods lens. This would entail working alongside staff with groups of clients who are currently engaged in the program to support both individual success/development but also success at a programmatic level. Any assessment work that interns engage in with the organization will require documentation for the specific project as well as knowledge translation/documentation about the impact of the specific project contributions to the organizations strategic goals. Interns could add considerable value by simultaneously researching/assessing the impact that this program could have on clients, families and the region – while considering assessment tools that could be used by TASO for M&E within an already overburdened system.

Interns should have an interest in the health care system – and in the psycho-social aspects of healthcare (ie. Not clinical) in particular. Interns should be ready to learn about HIV/AIDS and prepared to contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of clients while advocating for stigma reduction.

TASO is one of the longest standing partnerships with UBC ORICE. TASO as an organization has undergone tremendous organizational change over the past 25  years as it responded to the HIV/AIDS epidemic and then to the 2008/9 financial crises, and changing attitudes/urgency to HIV/AIDS. Currently, the model in Ungada is to identify programmatic priorities whereby multiple agencies collaborate. Regardless of the configuration, TASO placements have yielded tremendous learning for student interns in large part due to the highly skilled teams at the TASO sites.

Program Dates

Date Activity
July 21st, 2019 Applications accepted until full OR until 11:59pm on Sunday July 21st, whichever comes first.
August/September Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (all successful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions)
September- December 12 weeks of fieldwork in an International Service Learning placement
TBD Re-entry debrief
**Please note these dates may be adjusted, but will be confirmed prior to offer.

 

Program Costs

The costs below are per student and are yet to be fully determined, but will be within the following ranges. Possible funding available through ORICE award.

Location Program Fee
Uganda $3,900 – $4,400*

**Fees are subject to adjustment prior to offering the placement to the student.

Awards & Funding

Regional and International Service Learning Award

This $1500 award is open to eligible UBC students participating in this co-circular offering. Students from all faculties are eligible. Eligibility requirements are as follows:

  • Completed 60 credits of undergraduate coursework (3rd or 4th year standing)
  • Have a minimum GPA of 70% in the top 21 credits of the previous academic year. Priority will be given to students that have 75% in the top 27 credits of the previous academic year.
  • Be enrolled in at least 24 credits in the current academic year or enrolled in maximum sufficient credits to satisfy graduation requirements if this is your final year.

When you apply to any eligible program, you will be automatically assessed for the Regional and International Service Learning Award. Admission to regional and international service learning programs is by application.

ASTU 401C: Global Women’s Health and Human Rights

Applications for this program are currently closed.  Applications for fall co-circular programs will open soon. Check back in July/August for more information about summer 2020 programs.

Course Overview

Credits: 3

Term 1 (May 6th-June 20th), Summer 2019

Tues/Thurs 12:00-3:00pm

Point Grey Campus, UBC Vancouver

Room: Henry Angus Building, room 293

Instructor: Dr. Laura Lee; see bio below.

Course Description

This course, Global Women’s Health and Human Rights, will focus on critical issues related to global women’s health and her/their ability to exercise human rights. Using an inter-sectional approach, this course will examine a number of factors that women face in their pursuit of achieving and maintaining health, including, but not limited to economic, social and political factors.

Successful applicants to this course will receive a full conference admission to Women Deliver 2019, and will be required to attend as much of the conference as possible from June 3rd-June 6th 2019.

Students will be introduced to frameworks and theories through which to understand women’s health and rights. Incorporating lectures, guest speakers, readings, classroom discussion and experiential learning, this course will explore the Women Deliver 2019 conference theme of Power: Individual, Structural and Movements.

Students in this course will be required to apply their classroom-based learning to participation in the conference sessions and dialogue with organizations and individuals from diverse settings to inform their academic activities and understanding broadly.

For further information about Women Deliver 2019 conference visit https://wd2019.org/

 

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

Students interested in ASTU 401C: Global Women’s Health and Human Rights are required to submit an application, as there are limited seats in the course and the $500 Women Deliver 2019 conference fee will be paid for each student from the ORICE Experiential Immersion Award fund. Applications are open to upper-level (min. 60 credits) students in the Faculty of Arts.

To apply, please follow the link below and answer the questions. Applications will be reviewed as received and the portal for applications will close when the course is full.  It is highly recommended to apply ASAP for this course. Students accepted into the course will be contacted and asked to accept the offer, before being registered into the course on the SSC. Students not accepted into the course will also be notified by email. Please note that you may not be able to save your application and return to it at a later time once you have begun. You can preview the application below. 

ASTU 401C Application PREVIEW

When ready, apply here: ASTU 401C Application 

Course Instructor:

Dr. Laura Lee is a scholar practitioner in global child health. Laura has more than 15 years of experience in strengthening global child, adolescent and youth health programming, protection and services in adversity settings. Specializing in community-based participatory research methodologies, gender, child protection and participation, social justice and health equity and participatory program planning and evaluation, she has designed, implemented and analyzed research projects with children and youth in various countries in East and Southern Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and North and South America. In 2015, she obtained her PhD from University of British Columbia (UBC) for her work on the sexual health of young women heading households in Nakuru County, Kenya. She holds an MSc in International Health (Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, 2006) for her thesis focused on community-based responses to strengthen the psychosocial wellbeing of child-headed households in Rwanda. She is an Adjunct Professor at the UBC in the Faculty of Medicine, teaching program planning and evaluation and topics around global health. In the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, Laura has participated in HIV research with youth in South Africa and is a sessional instructor. Contractually she has worked with Proteknon Consulting Group, the International Institute of Child Rights and Development (IICRD), Queen Margaret University, World Vision, Terre des hommes (Tdh), Provincial Health Services Authority, and Vancouver Foundation, most recently exploring the role of sports (IICRD, Tdh, UNHCR and the International Olympic Committee) and the arts (IICRD, Tdh) in the protection and psychosocial wellbeing of youth in migration and adversity settings.

 

Additional Details

Inquiries about this course can be directed to ubc.orice@ubc.ca

 

 

ASTU 401G and ASTU 401 (TBD) Wicked Problems in Community Development

Program Overview

Applications for ASTU 401 (TBD) will open soon. Students interested in  Check back in a few days for more information about summer 2020 programs.

Course Overview

ASTU 401G “WICKED PROBLEMS” is an upper level course led by the Faculty of Arts!

Designed for students with previous international engagement experience. Students will focus on a case study in India and study the societal complexity of international community development.

Students will learn to utilize the trans-disciplinary tools of systems theory, forum theatre, critical systems heuristics, strategic design and, of course, current best practices in international community engagement.

In their influential paper of 1972, design scientist, Horst W. J. Rittel and city planner, Melvin M. Webber, coined the term “wicked” to describe “problems of governmental planning – and especially those of social or policy planning” that are “ill defined; and […] rely upon elusive political judgment for resolution.” They considered these problems to be of a fundamentally different nature to “problems in the natural sciences, which are definable and separable and may have solutions that are findable.” According to Rittel and Webber, the intrinsic complexity of such “wicked problems” as poverty, homelessness, and environmental degradation could not be solved but only “tamed” or “at best […] re-solved – over and over again.” Perhaps the single greatest consistent contributor to “wickedness” is the lack of consensus among stakeholders as to the correct description of the problem itself, let alone the nature of any possible intervention. This vexing conundrum is often due to differing tacit judgments regarding the “boundaries” of the “system or area of concern” to be addressed (i.e. Should an intervention to address homelessness include strategies around education and employment?) as well as a lack of clarity regarding the specific socio-political contexts and power distributions within any particular development context. The ways that these often unvoiced assumptions can surreptitiously constrain dialogue and action can be particularly acute when well-intentioned citizens from the “developed world” attempt to participate in community development projects with vulnerable populations in parts of the “developing world.”

Focusing upon a case-study situated in India and utilizing the transdisciplinary tools of systems theory, forum theatre, critical systems heuristics, strategic design and, of course, current best practices in international community engagement, this course will engage students in a probing, practice-based dialogue exploring contemporary approaches to the “taming” of “wicked problems” in an international community development context.

Students who complete ASTU 401G may be eligible to complete an enrol in 3 credit course ASTU 401 (TBD), which includes an international service learning component and would take place from May to August, 2020.

ASTU 401 (TBD) Eligibility Criteria Students who have completed their second year (54 credits) by January 1, 2020

Students are eligible to apply to ASTU 401 (TBD) if they have successfully completed their second year (54 credits) by January 1, 2020; have successfully completed ASTU 401G (Winter Term 2) and meet requirements set by the ISL Program.

ASTU 401 (TBD) is part of the ISL program and requires full participation in:

  • Pre-departure learning program from January – April 2020
  • ASTU 401G classes run on campus from January to April 2020
  • ASTU 401 (TBD) classes run on campus for May 2020
  • 12 weeks of fieldwork in an International Service Learning placement from beginning of June – end of August 2020
  • Return seminar and final course-work on campus in September 2020
  • Re-entry debrief and public engagement presentation on campus in September – October 2020

ARA Funding eligibility information can be found here. 

ASTU 401 (TBD) Placement Description

As a part of the ASTU 401 (TBD) course, you will be enrolled in an International Service Learning placement with SELCO Foundation in Bangalore, India. Specific information about the placements will be announced in Feb/March 2020.

ASTU 401 (TBD) Living Environment

You will live with host families in modest conditions. In most cases, you will take public transport to and from your placement.

Program Dates

Date Activity
July 01, 2018 Program application open. Applications are currently being reviewed in the order received.
January – April 2019 Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (all successful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions)
January – April, 2019 ASTU 401G course
May – August 2019 ASTU 401 (tbd) course + 12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBA)
September 2019 ASTU 401 (tbd) Course – Post Placement seminar and assignments due (exact times TBA)
September – October 2019 ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and Public Engagement Presentation

*Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

ASTU 401 (TBD) Program Costs

Please see the Awards & Eligibility section below for more information. The finalized cost per student is yet to be confirmed, but will be within the ranges in the table below.

Location Full Program Fee with 70% ARA Funding
India $3,900 – $4,400 $1,170 – $1,320

NOTE: The ISL Program fee is separate from UBC course tuition. Tuition dues will be appear on your Student Services Centre account at the beginning of the term(s) in which you receive course credit.

Program cost includes:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions at UBC
  • Room and board
  • Transportation from the airport to your placement site
  • Orientation in host country
  • In-session debrief and workshop part way through your placement
  • Reflection materials
  • Community partner management fee
  • Program management fee

*Fees may be adjusted before offer. Program costs vary primarily due to cost of living expenses per country and region. Placements may be in other countries where ISL community partners are located.

Program cost does not include:

The following expenses are not covered in program costs and are the responsibility of the student.

  • Tuition
  • Airfare*
  • Visas
  • Vaccinations
  • Local transportation while in country
  • Transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement
  • Personal items, and daily incidentals. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

ASTU 401 (TBD) Process & Timeline

Selection Process

Applications for this program are currently closed. To apply please fill out and submit an online application. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview. After interviews, you will be notified of a decision; successful candidates will be sent an offer letter with further details on the program and detailed instructions on how to accept. You will have approximately one week after receiving the offer letter to accept and pay a program deposit. Your selection into the ISL program includes meeting eligibility requirements, as well as your initial application and your performance in the interview.

Don’t wait to apply, spaces are limited!

Pre-Departure Overview

The pre-departure learning program is designed to prepare you for an international service learning placement. This will include:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions taking place over the academic term leading up to departure led by staff and community development professionals.
  • Creation of a learning and development plan
  • Participant-led events/presentations
  • Facilitated meetings with your placement team to explore learning topics

Post-Placement Overview

You will participate in post-placement activities in September – October 2020, including:

  1. A full day to debrief in September 2020
  2. Return seminar and final coursework in September 2020
  3. Presentation at an International Development Symposium in October 2020

HIST 403K: Ecological and Environmental History of Costa Rica

Program Overview

Applications for this program are currently closed.  Applications for fall co-circular programs will open soon. Check back in July/August for more information about summer 2020 programs.

Eligibility Criteria

Students who have completed their second year (54 credits) by January 1, 2019. A major in History is not required for this course, we encourage all disciplines to apply! ARA Funding eligibility information can be found here.

History 403K has multiple components

  • Pre-departure learning program from Late January – May 2019
  • Intensive Seminars run during the month of May on the UBC Vancouver Campus
  • 12 weeks of fieldwork in an International Service Learning placement in Costa Rica from early June – August 2019
  • Return seminar and final coursework on campus in September 2019
  • Re-entry debrief and International Development Symposium on campus in September – October 2019

Course Description

Costa Rica encompasses one of the most ecologically diverse regions of the world, with 10,000 kinds of trees and plants, almost 900 species of migrant and indigenous birds, more than 30,000 types of insects, and 200 varieties of mammals. History 403 is a three credit course that will give students an in depth look at the ecological and environmental history of Costa Rica through a transnational perspective. This course will explore the history of human interaction with, and challenges to, that ecology, as well as past, ongoing and current state and NGO efforts to preserve it. Specific topics include the emergence and impact of plantation economies of coffee and bananas on local the ecology; the growth of efforts to protect biodiversity in the country; the successes and failures associated those efforts; the origins and history of national parks, reserves, and conservation regions; recent critiques of sustainable development in the region; the history and challenges of eco-tourism, including human interaction with animals; and the role that protected areas play in reducing poverty in the country. In examining these topics the course will take a broadly comparative and international perspective, and will fulfill the History as well as International Relations BA major seminar requirements. Students will relate their classroom learning to the “real- world” through an international service learning placement in Costa Rica.  Students’ field placements will be organized and facilitated by staff at UBC’s Office of Regional and International Community Engagement.

*Course credit for this course is 3 credits.

Placement Descriptions

As a part of History 403K, you will be enrolled in an International Service Learning placement in Costa Rica. Placements go from late May – August 2019.

Costa Rica:

Our community partner is ASVPA, with two locations, one in Barra del Pacuare and the other one in Matapalo, Costa Rica. Students will work on an ecological service project alongside Roberto Solano Cordero, the lead biologist overseeing the project. Roberto is a biologist by profession although he also carries titles as an educator among other things. At ASVPA, Roberto oversees projects in sea turtle, sloths, and other species conservation as well as training and education in the area of sea turtle ecology and biological management. He has also worked for the National Maritime Patrol, the National Coast Guard Service, the Ministry of Education, as well as different associations and non-governmental organizations dedicated to conservation. Roberto has been a teacher, naturalist guide for tourism, environmental consultant, project manager, volunteer coordinator, and youth leader. He strongly believes in experiential learning as it is the best way to gain fulfilling work experience that will help shape future career paths.

Living Environment

In Costa Rica you will live in hostel-style accommodations with modest living conditions on the placement site.

Program Dates

Date Activity
Sept 01, 2018 Program application open. Applications are currently being reviewed in the order received.
January – April 2019 Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (all successful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions)
May, 2019 HIST 403 course
Late May – August 2019 12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBA)
September 2019 HIST 403 Course – Post Placement seminar and assignments due (exact times TBA)
September – October 2019 ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and Public Engagement Presentation

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer

Program Costs

Location Full Program Fee with 70% ARA Funding
Costa Rica $4,600 – $4,900 $1,380 – $1,440

NOTE: The ISL Program fee is separate from UBC course tuition. Tuition dues will be appear on your Student Services Centre account at the beginning of the term(s) in which you receive course credit.  

Program cost includes:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions at UBC
  • Room and board
  • Transportation from the airport to your placement site
  • Orientation in host country
  • In-session debrief and workshop part way through your placement
  • Reflection materials
  • Community partner management fee
  • Program management fee

*Fees may be adjusted before offer. Program costs vary primarily due to cost of living expenses per country and region. Placements may be in other countries where ISL community partners are located

Program cost does not include:

The following expenses are not covered in program costs and are the responsibility of the student.

  • Tuition
  • Airfare* (see ARA funding notes for airfare coverage information)
  • Visas
  • Vaccinations
  • Local transportation while in country
  • Transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement
  • Personal items, and daily incidentals. You will be required to bring your own laptop

Process & Timeline

Selection Process

Applications for this program are currently closed. To apply please fill out and submit an online application. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview. After interviews, you will be notified of a decision; successful candidates will be sent an offer letter with further details on the program and detailed instructions on how to accept. You will have approximately one week after receiving the offer letter to accept and pay a program deposit. Your selection into the ISL program includes meeting eligibility requirements, as well as your initial application and your performance in the interview.

Don’t wait to apply, spaces are limited!

Pre-Departure Overview

The pre-departure learning program is designed to prepare you for an international service learning placement. This will include:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions taking place over the academic term leading up to departure led by staff and community development professionals.
  • Creation of a learning and development plan
  • Participant-led events/presentations
  • Facilitated meetings with your placement team to explore learning topics

Post-Placement Overview

You will participate in post-placement activities in September – October 2019, including:

  1. A full day to debrief in September 2019
  2. Return seminar and final coursework in September 2019
  3. Presentation at an International Development Symposium in October 2019

ECON 364B: The Economics of Sustainable Development

Program Overview

ECON364B is a 3 credit course on campus in May followed by a 3 month regional service learning placement from June to August. This page describes the regional service learning placement associated with ECON364B; find more information on the international service learning placement associated with ECON364B here.

To take ECON364B, students must first complete its mandatory prerequisite course, ECON364A, during Winter Term 2 (Jan.-Apr. 2020). Students can register for the prerequisite course on the SSC here. Acceptance into ECON364B requires submitting an application. A link to the application can be found in the left sidebar.  Students who apply to ECON364B and are not registered in ECON364A will be force registered in the course when accepted into the program.

ECON364B requires participation in the Regional Service Learning Program, which includes pre-departure learning sessions, a mid-placement workshop, and post-placement coursework, discussion and public engagement (see below).

Course Description

The Economics of Sustainable Development is a 3 credit course integrating an international/regional service learning approach with rigorous academic studies. The aim of the course is to both deepen and broaden students’ understanding of the process of economic development as it affects economically disadvantages communities. In particular, students will explore the problems and concerns of developing communities in relation to ways that resilient, healthy communities are able to create sustainable livelihoods, to support rather than deplete the regional environment, and to build local economies that ensure the well-being of all community members.

Regional Service Learning Placement Description and Past Placement Example

As a part of the ECON 364B course, students in the past have worked in partnership with our regional community partner, Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT), in Tofino, BC.  In previous placements, students have worked with CBT on research/inquiry studies that brings together social, cultural, economic, and environmental information to tell a story about the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve region and measure the vitality in these communities. The aim of the regional service learning placement is to both deepen and broaden students’ understanding of the process of economic development as it affects their local communities. The UN SDGs provide a global and universal lens to examine wide issues of poverty, climate action, ocean health, economic growth etc, and will help to frame this regional placement in the global context as discussed in the course.

This placement is part of a new partnership and is best suited to students who are open to ambiguity and ready to not only collaborate effectively in the internship activities, but to also participate in establishing a respectful, professional and reciprocal relationship with the host organization and community.

Regional Partner: Clayoquot Biosphere Trust

Two decades ago, residents in Tofino and its surrounding communities were looking for ways to be more sustainable while continuing the traditional economic activities of the region, such as logging and fishing. They came together and formed the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, which aims to find solutions for a better ecosystem and environment.

In January 2000, Clayoquot Sound was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This recognition celebrates the unique ecosystems of Clayoquot Sound and the people who work so hard to encourage a respectful and sustainable relationship with our environment. The mission of the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) is to assist the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Region Community to achieve its vision by providing funding and logistical support for research, education and training initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable development. The CBT will facilitate the sharing and exchange of knowledge and experience both locally and globally. The CBT will accomplish these objectives by working creatively and proactively within the framework of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere programme.

Regional Service Learning Program 

ECON 364B is part of the ISL program and requires full participation in:

  • ECON 364A classes on campus from January-April 2020
  • Pre-departure learning program from March-May 2020
  • ECON 364B classes run on campus for May 2020 (2 x 4hrs per week)
  • 12 week placement from beginning of June to the end of August 2020
  • Mid-placement workshop
  • Return seminar and final course-work on campus in September 2020
  • Re-entry debrief and public engagement presentation on campus in September – October 2020


Eligibility Criteria

Students who have completed their second year (54 credits) by January 1, 2020 and who have completed a minimum of nine credits in Economics.

To take ECON364B, students must complete its prerequisite course, ECON364A, during Winter Term 2. Students can register for ECON364A on the SSC here; no application is required. Students who apply to ECON364B and are not registered in ECON364A will be force registered into the course when accepted into the program.


Living Environment

Tofino housing is limited, particularly in the summer months when Tofino experiences its peak tourist season.  As such, the living environment will be determined in the coming months.  Students should be prepared to live in possible options such as homestay with family, rental space, or hostel/shared living environment.


Important Dates

Date Activity
Now
 Program application open. Applications to ECON364B are currently being reviewed in the order they are received.
November 17, 2019 Deadline to apply to ECON364B
January 7, 2020 First day of lectures for mandatory prerequisite course, ECON364A
January 17, 2020 Last day to register for the mandatory prerequisite course, ECON 364A
January-April 2020 Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (succesful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions).
May-August 2020 ECON 364B course + 12 week regional placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through.
September 2020 ECON 364B post-placement seminar and assignments due (exact times TBA)
September – October 2020 RSL post-placement reflection sessions and Public Engagement Presentation

*Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.


Program Costs

Please see the Funding Opportunities Widget on the right for more information. The finalized cost per student is yet to be confirmed, but 2020 costs are noted below.

Location Full Program Fee
Tofino $2,900 - $3,200

NOTE: The RSL Program fee is separate from UBC course tuition. Tuition dues will be appear on your Student Services Centre account at the beginning of the term(s) in which you receive course credit.  

The program cost includes:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions at UBC
  • Housing in Tofino
  • Transportation from UBC to Tofino return
  • Orientation program in Tofino
  • In-session debrief and workshop partway through your placement
  • Reflection materials and post public engagement events
  • Program management fee

*Fees may be adjusted before offer. Program costs vary primarily due to cost of living expenses.

All expenses not covered in program costs are responsibility of the student. Costs not included are tuition, food during placement, local transportation while on placement, personal items, and daily incidentals. You will be required to bring your own laptop.


Process and Timeline

To apply please fill out and submit an online application. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview. After interviews, you will be notified of a decision; successful candidates will be sent an offer letter with further details on the program and detailed instructions on how to accept. You will have approximately one week after receiving the offer letter to accept and pay a program deposit. Your selection into the RSL program includes meeting eligibility requirements, as well as your initial application and your performance in the interview.

Don’t wait to apply, limited spaces exist!

Pre-Departure Overview

The pre-departure learning program is designed to prepare you for an regional service learning placement. This will include:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions taking place over the academic term leading up to departure led by staff and community development professionals.
  • Creation of a learning and development plan
  • Participant-led events/presentations
  • Facilitated meetings with your placement team to explore learning topics

Post-Placement Overview

You will participate in post-placement activities in September- October 2020, including:

  1. A full day to debrief in September 2020
  2. Return seminar and final coursework in September 2020
  3. Presentation at a Global Development Symposium in October 2020

ASTU 204C Collaborative Methods for Global Community Development

Program Overview

Registration open on the SSC!

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all UBC students

Upper level 4th year ASTU 401G Wicked Problems course also open for registration.

Course Overview

An interactive and blended learning experience introducing a suite of collaborative methodologies (systems thinking, strategic design, forum theatre) designed to prepare students for upper year courses across the campus in social change and community development. Students will be drawing upon these methods to explore a problem space (Global Migration) related to one of the Sustainable Development Goals.  This course will engage students on the topic of migration using virtual reality and other creative technologies to increase contextual understanding.Emphasis will be placed on bridging theory to practice around collaborative methods for problem or opportunity finding, problem solving, co-creation, and working in cross-disciplinary teams.

Within this course, students are expected to be active learners in the classroom, meaning that they must actively contribute to classroom discussion and studio sessions. The course will utilize a “studio approach” to learning where students will be expected to respectfully give feedback to their peers and incorporate the feedback into their work. Students should come to class having read the assigned articles and/or having watched any videos for each class.

Additional Details

ASTU 204C is a 3 credit course taught entirely at the UBC Vancouver campus. Register now for Winter term 2 at ASTU 204C.

Clean Energy Project with Eco-Agricultural Conservation Organization in Mexico

Position Overview

Applications are currently being reviewed in the order they are received. Program will close when full, OR at 11:59pm on Sunday April 29th, 2018, whichever comes first.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to engineering UBC students with an interest in energy conservation.

Partner Organization

Tsomanotik‘s [http://manotik.org/]  Tsomanotik is an eco-agricultural organization working in Chiapas and is committed to promoting sustainability and solidarity in community settings. Communities in rural parts of Chiapas state are facing rising energy costs for fuel and electricity which have increased as much as 38% over the past two years. Tsomanotik, along with key organizational partners, are seeking to explore the possibility of developing alternative energy sources from renewable resources. Interns will contribute to a feasibility study and creation of a white paper on this issue by considering the development and implementation of alternative energy sources. Focus areas would include technical and community-based factors such as design processes, technical factors, and potential community-based outcomes of pursuing such technology.

Project Description

The closest electrical line runs almost 500m away from Tsomanotik’s land and requires a set of makeshift posts and wiring to be transmitted in. The absence of a transformer that can keep the voltage high on the transmission process and then lowered to usable levels (120V) means that almost 10% of the energy is lost over the last 500m. With over four water pumps and more than 13 people living in the premises plus visitors, this power demand has increased to the point where it (usage + loss) becomes a significant figure in the organization’s budget.

Yet, the most important -philosophical- reason to look into alternative sources of energy has been with Tsomanotik since the beginning: to develop and share ideas and experiences that can increase the sustainability of communities and better their relationship with their environment. The process of shifting towards a different, independent and clean source of energy for our center will yield significant knowledge and insights on the way and eventually result in a model that can be carried into different communities, households and livelihoods.

This project is aimed primarily at analyzing the areas of opportunity provided by the environment, habits and current facilities to transition into a different, cleaner and more reliable energy supply. Research must be carried out not only in terms adding new generation infrastructure but should consider also other sources of energy already existing inside the center’s loop. In addition, the project seeks to develop a set of rules and organizational culture that will shift the conception of energy from a “utility” to a an item that is hard to harvest and should be used purposefully and responsibly.

The main goal of this research then is to gather information to decide if and how a transition into a better supply system can be carried out. If the transition is deemed feasible, the information gathered and the main plan will be submitted to the Mexican Government in order to apply for funding under the “Clean Energy Support Initiative for Rural Producers”. This grant is aimed to cut down on the costs of food production and pollution in rural areas through the implementation of clean energy initiatives in farms, rural factories and food producing collectives. The information will be laid out according to the project framework requested by the Mexican government to those NGO’s and agro-ecological organizations who apply to a grant that covers 75% of the investment in clean energy.

Accommodations

You will live on site at Tsomanotik in hostel-style accommodations.

Program Dates

Date Activity
April 29th, 2018 Applications accepted until full OR until 11:59pm on Sunday April 29th, whichever comes first.
May – June Orientation and pre-departure learning activities
July – August 8 weeks of fieldwork in an International Service Learning placement
Mid-September – Early October Re-entry debrief and Public Engagement Event
**Please note these dates may be adjusted, but will be confirmed prior to offer.

Program Costs

The costs below are per student. Exact program costs are not confirmed at this time but will be within the following ranges.

Location

Mexico

Program Fee

$4,600 – $4,800

Business Plan Development with Environmental Conservation Organization in Costa Rica

Position Overview

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all UBC students with an interest in environmental conservation and restoration, as well as experience in one or more of the following areas:

  • Business Plan/Model Development
  • Accounting and Financial Planning

Partner Organization

Students will work alongside Roberto Solano Cordero, the lead biologist at the organization, Matapalo Sea Turtle Conservation in Matapalo, Costa Rica.  The project will encompass organization activity that takes place on multiple sites, including along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Roberto is a biologist by profession although he also carries other titles, including educator. Roberto oversees projects in sea turtle conservation, as well as the conservation of other local species such as sloths. Additionally, he trains and educates locals and visitors to his organization on sea turtle ecology and biological management. In the past, Roberto worked for the National Maritime Patrol, the National Coast Guard Service, the Ministry of Education, as well as different associations and non-governmental organizations dedicated to conservation. Roberto has been a teacher, naturalist guide for tourism, environmental consultant, project manager, volunteer coordinator, and youth leader. He strongly believes that experiential learning is the best way to gain meaningful work experience that will help shape students’ future career paths.

Project Description

Matapalo Sea Turtle Conservation is an organization, dedicated to environmental conservation. The staff at Matapalo are experts in conservation, but need assistance in managing the business side of the organization. As a long-time partner of the Office of Regional and International Community Engagement (ORICE), Matapalo Sea Turtle Conservation has been working with a group of UBC students (who have been working remotely from UBC) this year to develop a long-term business model for the organization.

Successful applicants of this program will partake in a three month international service learning placements at the Matapalo Sea Turtle Conservation organization, during which they will carry on the work that the team of UBC students worked on remotely throughout the fall and winter. At Matapalo Sea Turtle Conservation, students will help design and implement a sustainable business model, while assisting with the completion of the 2017 financial report and also participating in the conservation work of the organization. In this placement, students will gain valuable work experience while exploring how external actors can respectfully engage with local organizations to promote sustainable development.

Accommodations

You will live on site at Matapalo Sea Turtle Conservation in hostel-style accommodations.

Program Dates

Date Activity
February 25, 2017 Applications accepted until full OR until 11:59pm on Sunday February 25th, whichever comes first.
March – April Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (all successful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions)
May – August 12 weeks of fieldwork in an International Service Learning placement
Mid-September – Early October Re-entry debrief and Public Engagement Event
**Please note these dates may be adjusted, but will be confirmed prior to offer.

 

Program Costs: The costs below are per student. Exact program costs are not confirmed at this time but will be within the following ranges.

Location: Costa Rica

Program Fee: $4,600-$4,800

Funding opportunities: $1000 bursaries available for students with a 70% in 24 credits (with no fail/incomplete) in W2016.

Pre-Departure Overview

The pre-departure learning program is designed to prepare you for an international service learning placement. This will include:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions taking place over the academic term leading up to departure, led by staff and community development professionals.
  • Creation of a learning and development plan
  • Participant-led events/presentations
  • Facilitated meetings with your placement team to explore learning topics

Post-Placement Overview

You will participate in post-placement activities in Sept – Oct 2018, including:

  1. A full day to debrief session
  2. Presentation at a Public Engagement Event

Additional Information

The program cost includes:

  • Pre-departure learning sessions at UBC
  • Room and board
  • Transportation from the airport to your placement site
  • Orientation in host country
  • In-session debrief and workshop part way through your placement
  • Reflection materials
  • Community partner management fee
  • Program management fee

*Fees may be adjusted before offer.

NOTE: The stated program fee does not include all expenses of the program. Students are responsible for all additional costs not included. These costs are: tuition, airfare, visas, vaccinations, local transportation while in country, transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement, personal items, and daily incidentals. You will also be required to bring your own laptop.

Selection Process

To apply please fill out and submit an online application. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview. After interviews, you will be notified of a decision; successful candidates will be sent an offer letter with further details on the program and detailed instructions on how to accept. You will have approximately one week after receiving the offer letter to accept and pay a program deposit. Your selection into the ISL program includes meeting eligibility requirements, as well as your initial application and your performance in the interview.

Don’t wait to apply, there are limited spaces available!

Strengthening Community-Based Business Models; Quelonios del Caribe

Project Overview

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all UBC graduate students and upper year undergraduates interested in working on an organizational challenge form a trans-disciplinary approach.

Project Description

Students will research and brainstorm ways to address specific organizational challenges of ORICE’s community partner organization, Quelonios del Caribe. Quelonios del Caribe is a non-profit conservation organization based in Costa Rica.  Students will work alongside Quelonios del Caribe, on developing a business model to generate needed maintenance funds. This project will require students to work with peers, faculty/community partners and staff provide possible solutions, tools and/or approaches to meet Quelonios del Caribe’s needs.

Project Dates

Date Activity
September 24th, 2017 Program applications accepted until full OR until 11:59pm on Sunday, September 24th, 2017
October – November 2017 Research, brainstorm, and develop a potential business model for Quelonios del Caribe
Late November 2017 Finalize proposed business model and wrap up work with Quelonios

Logistics

All work will take place on Vancouver campus. Students will work with ORICE and Quelonios staff (via email / skype) to craft a draft business model for Quelonios del Caribe.

The estimated time commitment for this program is 5 hours per week from October-November, 2017. The breakdown of this time commitment is as follows:

  1. Participation in a 2 hour weekly meeting (scheduled around students’ course work)
  2. 1-3 hours of independent research/work per week outside of scheduled meetings

How to Apply:

To apply please send your resume and a 200-500 word blurb explaining why you would like to be part of this project to ubc.isl@ubc.ca

PSYC 417A: Psychology and Developing Societies

Program Overview

Applications are now closed.

Eligibility Criteria

This program is open to all Faculty of Arts Psychology majors and minors who have completed 2nd year (54 credits) by May 2018 as well as have completed 6 credits of 300-level psychology course work.

PSYC 417A has multiple components

  • Pre-departure learning program from January – April 2018
  • Seminars run on campus in May 2018
  • 12 weeks of fieldwork in an International Service Learning placement from late May – August 2018
  • Return seminar and final coursework on campus in September 2018
  • Re-entry debrief and International Development Symposium on campus in September – October 2018

Course Description

Psychology 417A – Psychology and Developing Societies is a 3 credit course that will introduce students to the application of psychology to global development initiatives.  Students will explore the diverse contributions that psychologists may make to global development and examine topics that foster cultural sensitivity and respectful collaboration in diverse cultural contexts.  Students will relate their classroom learning to the “real- world” through an international service learning placement in Uganda or Kenya.  Students’ field placements will be organized and facilitated by staff at UBC’s Office of Regional and International Community Engagement.

Placement Descriptions

As a part of PSYC 417A, you will be enrolled in an International Service Learning placement. Specific placements will be announced in February-March 2018. Placements go from late May – August 2018. Below are examples of placements previously offered to students in the course:

Uganda:

Community Development through HIV/AIDS Programs and Services

Our community partner, The AIDS Support Organization (TASO), was founded in 1987 to contribute to the process of HIV prevention, education, support, and eradication.  Students will work in a TASO regional office on a project that emphasizes partnerships needed for the development and mobilization of programs related to HIV/AIDS. Interns will work closely with TASO staff to develop tools and communication strategies that can be implemented to reduce the behavioural risks related to substance abuse, HIV, STIs, and unwanted pregnancies in Uganda’s youth. They will also be involved in developing youth-accessible social support models.

Kenya:

Community Health & Wellbeing – Evaluation and Implementation

Carolina for Kibera (CFK) is based in the neighborhood of Kibera in Nairobi and exists to develop local leaders, catalyse positive social change and alleviate poverty in Kibera.  Driven by local needs, CFK programming advance health, education, ethnic cooperation, gender equality and economic empowerment and equip leaders with tools to strengthen the community. Interns will evaluate Binti Pamoja’s (Daughters United) programs in the form of Safe Spaces and Core Program.  Following from a previous survey conducted in 2009, which comprehensively investigated Binti’s level of functioning at the time, the current project is intended to bring up-to-date monitoring and evaluating procedures for the program.  The current research, adapted from that conducted in 2009, highlights key areas of Binti’s programming, such as sexual and reproductive health, financial literacy, relationships, self-esteem, and gender norms.  Interns will work with CFK staff on the design, implementation and analysis of the study.

Living Environment

In Uganda and Kenya you will live with host families in modest conditions. In most cases, you will take public transport to and from your placement.

Program Dates

Date Activity
Now – January 21st, 2018 Program application is open and will close when full. Applications will be considered in the order they are received.
Jan – Apr 2018 Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (all successful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions)
May 2018 PSYC 417A course
May – Aug 2018 12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBA)
Sep 2018 PSYC 417A course – Post Placement seminar and assignments due (exact dates TBA)
Sep – Oct 2018 ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and International Development Symposium.

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

Program Costs

The cost* of this program may be funded by the ARA award. Please see the Awards & Eligibility section below for more information. The costs below are per student and are yet to be fully determined, but will be within the following ranges.

Location Full Program Fee Fee with 70% ARA funding
Uganda $3,900 – $4,400 $1,170 – $1,320
Kenya $3,900 – $4,400 $1,170 – $1,320

Students applying for the ARA award through PSYC 417A must fulfill the following requirements in addition to those listed under the Arts Research Abroad section.

  • Be enrolled as a Psychology major in the Faculty of Arts.
  • Have completed 6 credits of 300 or 400 level PSYC courses.