Summer 2001 dates:
1st session - June 6 - 30, 2001
2nd session - July 2 - 25, 2001

This course is a field study of the oral history, literature, art, and religious life of the Quichua Indian people. It provides immersion in the Quichua language and practical training in contemporary field work methods. A unique perspective is gained by living and working with native communities in the Andes Mountains and Amazonian Forests. Members of these communities serve as co-teachers in the courses.

LOCATION

Ecuador is known for its array of indigenous cultures, well-preserved colonial architecture, dense rainforest, and otherworldly volcanic landscapes. The high point of each session is a thirteen day stay in an Amazonian Runa community on the banks of the Napo River. Other destinations include the colonial city of Quito founded in 1534, Andean communities around Otavalo and Salasaca, and the volcanic hot springs of Baños and Papallacta. (See our website at for more details about travel destinations.)

ELIGIBILITY

This program is open to adventurous students willing to be challenged by the difference of indigenous life. Prerequisites: Session 1 - None, Session 2: Must have a B.A. or be a veteran of Session 1 with the permission of the Director. Teachers and mid-career adults wishing to continue their education are encouraged to enroll. Students or alumni from any university are welcome. To reserve a place in the program, submit a completed application form with the $250 ($50 non-refundable) application fee by February 5, 2001. Applications will be accepted until spaces are filled.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

All participants must enroll for seven credits each session: four in Quichua Language and three from any of the other courses listed below:

Session 1:
FLA 494/590 ST/RC: Quichua Language and Literature I (4)
FLA 494/590 ST/RC: Quichua Language and Literature III (4)
ASB 494/591 ST: Field Study of Andean/Amazonian Cultures I (3)
HUM 494 ST: South American Indian Cultural Expression (3)
REL 494/591 ST: Field Study of Andean/Amazonian Religion I (3)

Session 2:
FLA 494/590 ST/RC: Quichua Language and Literature I (4)
FLA 494/590 ST/RC: Quichua Language and Literature II (4)
FLA 494/590 ST/RC: Quichua Language and Literature IV (4)
ASB 494/591 ST: Field Study of Andean/Amazonian Cultures II (3)
REL 494/591 ST: Field Study of Andean/Amazonian Religion II (3)
REL 494/591 ST: Problems in Teaching Indigenous Culture (3)
IED 498/598 ST: Problems in Teaching Indigenous Culture (3)

Session 2 is designed for graduate students preparing for a lifetime of serious research on indigenous culture; K-12 teachers who wish to develop course materials on Amazonian culture or environment; or mature students seeking to enrich their lives through continuing education.

ACCOMPANYING FACULTY

Professor Tod Swanson is Director of ASU’s Center for Latin American Studies. His specialty is Quichua religious history. Swanson was raised in the Ecuadorian Amazon and is fluent in Spanish and Quichua.

Professor Cecilia Mafla was born and raised in Ecuador. Prior to coming to ASU, she taught for many years at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito in the area of literature and linguistics. Professor Mafla has studied three dialects of Quichua.

LIVING ACCOMMODATIONS

Varies from a health spa nestled in the Andes to camping under palm thatch in the Amazon forest. In indigenous communities, basic American-style meals alternate with opportunities to sample native cuisine.

COST OF PROGRAM

The cost of $1,995.00 for one session or $3,990.00 for both sessions (subject to change) includes tuition and fees, ground transportation in Ecuador, access to Indian communities and forests, lodging, and three meals a day. Not included: airfare (approx. $680 with a group rate), passport, health insurance, and personal expenses.