The Global Semester (Fall Semester and Interim)

Global Semester examines issues facing developing countries. The itinerary takes the group around the world with visits to Switzerland, Turkey, Egypt, India, Thailand, Hong Kong, China, and South Korea. Participants study at the American University in Cairo, the Ecumenical Christian Centre in Bangalore, India, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea. They take five courses. In 2007-08, the courses are:

History GL257, Themes in Ancient Graeco-Roman and Islamic-Egyptian History
Lectures, discussions and extensive field trips provide understanding of significant developments and themes in Egypt's ancient and medieval past with emphasis on dynastic Coptic and Islamic periods. Field trips include a visit to Luxor. Counts toward major. GE: Historical Studies in Western Culture (HWC)

Religion GL251, Religions of India
Lectures, discussions and field trips provide the basis for an understanding of the history and practice of Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and other religions in India. Religious scholars from India provide the background for an understanding of the assumptions, views, nature, traditions and contemporary practices of the dominant religious expressions in India. Counts toward major.

Art GL241, The Arts of China
Survey of Chinese art, its function, technique and aesthetic elements from bronzes and porcelain bones of the Shang Dynasty to procelain and scroll paintings of the Ching Dynasty. Counts toward major. GE: Artistic Studies (ALS-A), Multicultural Studies Course (MCS-G).

Sociology GL255, Korean Society
Introduction to the social structure and institutions of contemporary South Korea, including population, urbanization, social class and mobility, work organizations and labor relations, family and women. Counts toward major. GE: Studies in Human Behavior and Society (HBS). Multicultural Studies Course (MCS-G).

Field Supervisor's Course: (taught in 2007 by accompanying St. Olaf faculty member L. DeAne Lagerquist)
ID GL247, Global Issues: Jesus in Cross-Cultural Perspective (2007 course) Religious pluralism and Christianity's growth in southern and eastern hemispheres shape this course. Drawing upon the church's history in each place and informed by local believers, we ask how interactions with "native" culture and religions shape Christian faith and life: e.g., understandings of Jesus and the Bible, worship practices and response to religious pluralism, nationalism, and human rights. Students increase their understanding of Christianity's variety, religious pluralism, and their own views of these matters. Counts toward major (Religion). GE: Biblical and Theological Studies (BTS-T).