Detailed Curriculum for Hybrid Learning Program with Study Abroad in Belize

Overview

The Learning Modules are designed to provide students with a comprehensive educational experience that combines online learning and in-person study abroad. The curriculum is derived from material based on the Caribbean region, particularly Belize, but the basic principles and knowledge are applied across a broad spectrum of subjects. The program includes instructional courses, supplemental materials for the UTAH ACE portfolio, and hands-on experiences in Belize. Program Components:

• Online Education: September—June, with limited registration slots.
• In-Person Study Abroad: A 7-day immersive program in Belize starting in January, with slots available in January, February, March, and April (TBA).

Curriculum Breakdown

Online Modules (September – June)

1. Conservation

• Module 1: Introduction to Conservation
  • Definition and importance of conservation
  • History of conservation efforts
  • Key concepts: biodiversity, ecosystems, sustainability
• Module 2: Conservation Practices
  • Conservation methods and techniques
  • Protected areas and national parks
  • Community-based conservation
• Module 3: Conservation in the Caribbean
  • Specific conservation efforts in Belize
  • Case studies of successful conservation projects
  • Impact of tourism on conservation

2. Archeology

• Module 1: Introduction to Archeology
  • Definition and scope of archeology
  • Archeological methods and tools
• Module 2: Mayan Archeology
  • Overview of Mayan civilization
  • Significant Mayan sites in Belize
  • Techniques used in Mayan archeology
• Module 3: Field Archeology
  • Steps of conducting a field excavation
  • Analyzing artifacts and findings
  • Preservation of archeological sites

3. Health Science

• Module 1: Basic Health in the Caribbean
  • Hydration
  • Heatstroke
  • First Aid
  • Basics of human nutrition
  • Essential nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals
  • Healthy eating habits and dietary guidelines
• Module 2: Tropical Diseases
  • Common tropical diseases in the Caribbean
  • Prevention and treatment methods
• Module 3: Health Practices in Belize
  • Traditional health practices and modern healthcare in Belize
  • Health education and community health programs

4. Marine Biology

• Module 1: Introduction to Marine Biology
  • Marine ecosystems and biodiversity
  • Coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses
• Module 2: Marine Life in the Caribbean
  • Common marine species in Belize
  • Conservation of marine habitats
• Module 3: Field Studies in Marine Biology
  • Methods of studying marine life
  • Impact of human activities on marine environments

5. Reading and Writing

• Module 1: Reading Comprehension
  • Techniques for understanding complex texts
  • Critical analysis of readings
• Module 2: Writing Skills
  • Writing essays and reports
  • Creative writing based on personal experiences and observations
• Module 3: Portfolio Development
  • Compiling and presenting work samples
  • Reflective writing on learning experiences

6. Botany

• Module 1: Introduction to Botany
  • Plant anatomy and physiology
  • Importance of plants in ecosystems
• Module 2: Caribbean Flora
  • Common plant species in Belize
  • Uses of plants in traditional medicine and food
• Module 3: Field Botany
  • Methods of studying and documenting plants
  • Conservation of plant species

7. Zoology

• Module 1: Fundamentals of Zoology
  • Animal classification and taxonomy
  • Basic anatomy and physiology
• Module 2: Wildlife in the Caribbean
  • Common terrestrial and marine animals in Belize
  • Conservation efforts for endangered species
• Module 3: Field Zoology
  • Techniques for studying and tracking animals
  • Human impact on wildlife and conservation strategies

8. Political Science

• Module 1: Introduction to Political Science
  • Basic political concepts and systems
  • The role of government and politics in society
• Module 2: Politics in the Caribbean
  • Political history and systems in Belize
  • Current political issues and challenges
• Module 3: International Relations
  • Belize’s role in regional and global politics
  • Impact of international organizations on the Caribbean