Through this course students will… • Examine and learn about Qatari and Arab history and culture and the diversity within Middle East populations • Identify similarities and differences between Qatari and American higher education • Describe the mission and goals of the Qatar Foundation and Education City • Identify the unique challenges and opportunities in implementing and adapting the American system of higher education in Qatar • Contrast the international experience with American Higher Education and Student Affairs • Identify ways in which their increased knowledge about working with diverse groups and/or international students can be applied to their work • Gain knowledge on the collaboration and partnerships across cultural, institutional, community, and international borders • Explore finding purpose as college student educators in a diverse and complex world • Review and discuss the implications from the learning in class for future policy and practice domestically and internationally and engage around the question: where do we go from here? Proposed Itinerary: Dates Fri. 1/8 Sat. 1/9 Sun. 1/10 Mon. 1/11 Tues. 1/12 Wed. 1/13 Thurs. 1/14 Fri. 1/15 Sat. 1/16 Sun. 1/17 Mon. 1/18 Tues. 1/19 Wed. 1/20 Thurs. 1/21 Fri. 1/22
Depart CA Arrive in Doha (evening) Explore Qatari history and culture (including visits to the Islamic Art Museum, Islamic Education Center, Al Jazeera, camel races, modern shopping malls, and/or Souk Watif) Morning: Tour of Education City Campus Afternoon: Meetings with branch campus staff Meeting with branch campus student affairs staff Exploring the student experience: class visits with students, meetings with student organizations, student focus groups, etc. (these activities may also be spread throughout the week based on student availability) Free Weekend Optional activity: overnight Safari Tour (cost ~$150 pp) Young Professionals Institute Young Professionals Institute Young Professionals Institute Visit to Qatar University Other Activities TBD* Depart Doha, arrive in CA
* Other Possible Activities (for 1/21 or other days): • Visiting other Universities in the area • Visiting elementary and secondary schools • Attending any other events going on at QF and the branch campuses • Community service project • Final celebration with UMD/USD students and QF and branch campus staff (possible Dhow boat dinner cruise)