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

(CA-AG) (CU-ITL, CU-SBY)

Winter. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Permission of instructor required. Prerequisite: Completion of at least one college-level writing course. Course Fee: Detailed travel expenses and fees will be discussed prior to course enrollment. Offered in varying locations across Mexico.

L. Chambliss, M. LaVigne.

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.