COMM 3090 Experiential Writing in Mexico: Cultural and Environmental Communication - Courses & Programs

Course description

The natural and cultural experience of 8-10 days in Mexico will serve as the inspiration for compelling written communication in this writing intensive course. Students will master writing for diverse audiences in a variety of common formats, from science communication to popular media. Keys to successful communication include; the ability to grab and maintain the reader?s attention while synthesizing complex or controversial material; developing a narrative; and, above all, not distracting the reader with weak writing, lack of clarity, or poor structure. Through readings and field trips, students will explore cultural, environmental, and socioeconomic development issues in a rich and diverse landscape. These experiences will be the basis of the written assignments, augmented by research. Classes while in Mexico are full days with homework overnight.

Outcome 1: Demonstrate written communication skills across multiple media.

Outcome 2: Communicate complex or controversial information.

Outcome 3: Integrate personal experience and scholarly research for effective writing.

Outcome 4: Interpret trade-offs between economic development, conservation, and cultural imperatives.

Outcome 5: Identify key aspects of historical and present-day Mexican culture, including complex socio-economic challenges.

This course qualifies for CALS distribution credits for Written Expression and CA. Students and instructors will meet prior to the trip, before the end of fall semester. This is a writing intensive. We will meet every day, all day, for a mix of field trips, writing instruction and assignments.