Credits
3
Prerequisites
None
Dates
Dec 28 – Jan 15
Program Countries
Jordan
Program Base
Amman
Critical Global Issue of Study
Global Health & Well-being
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Jordan
Field Course on Refugees & Displaced Populations
(Deadline Passed; Apply by Nov 1, 2020)
Examine the principles of effective, inclusive, and resilience-enhancing humanitarian action through field-based learning in Jordan.
At a Glance
Overview
On this program, you will have the opportunity to analyze and appraise the refugee crisis in the context of Jordan. You will focus on the factors behind the influx of refugees to Jordan and impacts on the host country, including the strain on housing, water, education, municipal services, and health, as well as the rising tensions between refugees and host communities due to competition for overstretched resources. You will learn about refugee protection systems, social identity challenges of Syrian refugees, the impacts of displacement on women and girls, and the work of humanitarian assistance agencies in Jordan.
The program is designed to integrate theory and field-based learning into the study of refugee camps, refugees living in host communities, public institutions, NGOs, UN agencies, and international relief organizations. You will meet with humanitarian assistance and relief agency experts from UN agencies, local and international organizations, and research centers, such as the Jordanian Hashemite Fund for Human Development (JOHUD); Doctors without Borders (MSF); the Refugees, Displaced Persons, and Forced Migration Studies Center; and the Women’s Center at Yarmouk University. You will spend New Year’s Eve in a desert camp in Wadi Rum, visit Petra and the Dead Sea, and gain a deeper understanding of the social fabric of Jordanian society through your experience living with a homestay family.
Highlights
- Visit local NGOs across Jordan to observe health, education, and protection projects and initiatives
- Participate in a reciprocity project with a local NGO and engage in a resilience building activity with a refugee population.
- Learn from international and local aid professionals and discuss the principles, standards, and challenges of delivering aid to vulnerable communities.
- Camp in Wadi Rum, swim in the Dead Sea, and visit Petra, one of the Seven New Wonders of the World
Prerequisites
None.
Program Sites
Amman, Jordan
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a safe haven in a region of conflict, which has delighted visitors for centuries with its World Heritage Sites, friendly towns, and inspiring desert landscapes. You will be based in Amman, the capital and Jordan’s chief commercial and financial center, a modern city with ancient roots, which creates a fascinating city of contrasts. The program center’s neighborhood is home to several governmental buildings, embassies, and cultural centers, and is within easy walking distance to restaurants and cafés.
While in Jordan you will take a city tour including downtown Amman, the Citadel, and the spectacular Roman ruins.
The Northern excursion will allow you to experience the extraordinary remains of the ancient city of Jerash, one of the most impressive and best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy, as well as the nearby Castle of Ajloun.
The highlight of the program is the Southern excursion to Petra, a treasure of the ancient world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Wadi Rum, where you will camp among some of the most stunning desert landscapes in the world.
Please note that SIT will make every effort to maintain its programs as described. To respond to emergent situations, however, SIT may have to change or cancel programs.
Academics
Coursework
The following syllabi are representative of this program. Because courses develop and change over time to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities, actual course content will vary from term to term.
Program Components
- Presentations and discussions panels by humanitarian action professionals and local experts
- Field visits to NGOs focused on women’s empowerment
- Field visits to agencies focused on protecting children and vulnerable populations
- Reciprocity field-project
Refugees and Displaced Populations
Refugees and Displaced Populations
Refugees and Displaced Populations – syllabus
(MDES 3000 / 3 credits)
Homestays
Amman
You’ll live with a homestay family in Amman for three weeks. The homestay is a unique opportunity to become a member of a local family, share meals with them, and take part in special occasions. Jordan is known for its warm hospitality. You will learn about traditions, local perspectives on issues, and Arab culture while experiencing the country through your homestay family’s eyes.
Most homestay families are middle class and maintain the customs of a typical Arab home. Homestay families may include first- or second-generation Palestinians who are major contributors to Jordan’s social and cultural life. The homestay experience gives you an opportunity to further enhance your spoken Arabic.
OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS
Other accommodations during the program include hostels, research institutes, or small hotels.
Faculty & Staff
Jordan: Field Course on Refugees & Displaced Populations
Bayan Abdulhaq, PhD
Razan Amirah
Discover the Possibilities
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Cost & Scholarships
The total cost for this program is $3,300, including tuition, room & board, health insurance, and more. Financial aid may apply. Contact your study abroad office or SIT Admissions for more information.