ECU Study Abroad - Teaching Human Impact in Irish Coastal Ecosystems Summer 2021

COVID-19 STATEMENT: ECU is committed to preparing students to succeed in today’s global, multicultural society by offering engaging, high impact learning activities such as study abroad. Despite current conditions that prevent international travel, we continue to promote and plan in hopes conditions will allow students, faculty, and staff to safely participate in study abroad this spring and summer. As we assess the viability of programs abroad, ECU and the Office of Global Affairs will follow all federal, state, UNC system guidance in making these important decisions.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

Engage in a variety of field experiences exploring how humans impact the ecosystems of the north Atlantic as you study abroad in Ireland. Immerse yourself in Irish culture as you learn how these coastal communities have depended upon the sea for centuries. Visit Neolithic sites and learn the historical context, from the monastic communities who settled here to the contemporary surf industry. Investigate the rich biodiversity and unique geology as you hike along the sea cliffs of Donegal, field trip to the Strand Hill Coastline, and ferry to Tory Island. Using a systems thinking approach, explore human impacts of climate change and sustainability efforts both locally and in these unique coastal communities.

Highlights include stops at sites from ancient Ireland, a tour of Donegan Town and Castle, and a trip to the Strand Hill Coastline, County Sligo. The group will also field trip to the breath-taking Donegal coastline and take a 7-mile ferry to Tory Island. We will hike to Sliabh Liag Cliffs and dine on Fish-n-Chips at the Sea Shack Killybegs. There is potential of a day trip to Derry, Northern Ireland to visit the Museum of Free Derry and discuss politics and social unrest of recent years to open discourse about current issues facing the U.S. Incorporated throughout course is discussion of the grass-roots efforts of the Citizen’s Assembly of the Republic of Ireland to drive social policy change. Optional activities include a surfing lesson and horseback riding beach trek.

TRAVEL DATES: June 10 – 20, 2021

*course instruction may begin prior to travel and/or continue post travel.

PROGRAM LEADER: Mrs. Bonnie Glass & Dr. Tammy Lee

info: https://piratesabroad.ecu.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgramAngular&id=10988