Description

Overview: The Kaqchikel course, Oxlajuj Aj, offers a unique opportunity to learn a Mayan language and develop an appreciation of a rich and vital culture in a congenial setting central to indigenous communities. The goals of the course are threefold:

(a) to aid American scholars enhance their knowledge of a Mayan language and set of communities
(b) to supply Kaqchikel scholars with teaching materials in their languages and with "academic" perspectives on and references to their cultural reality
(c) to provide a forum for the interchange of knowledge between Mayan and non-Mayan students of Mayan languages and culture.

Setting Description: Kaqchikel, one of the principal Mayan languages, is spoken by more than half a million people in highland Guatemala. The region's long traditions of language and literature, including texts from the 16th Century, continue today as new works in modern Kaqchikel are published in ever-growing numbers. Efforts to preserve and protect the language are playing a pivotal role in the Mayan struggle to regain control over their political and cultural destiny.

Highlights

The Stone Center for Latin American Studies offers an intensive six-week course in the vital Kaqchikel language and its culture, providing a unique opportunity to observe and study the complex process as a traditionally marginalized language is standardized for use in education and publication.

Application Due: March 2, 2012

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Anthropology
• Culture
• Languages / Linguistics

Cost in US$:

USD4,000

Program Fees Include:

The cost of the six-week program is USD4,000 for the three-credit option and USD4,400 for the six-credit option. The cost will include the following:

* Three or six 600/700-level credits from Tulane University
* Medical insurance
* Specialized tours and outings designed for participants in the program
* Travel in between sites on the program

Please note that airfare and housing are NOT included in the cost of the program. Students can expect to pay upwards of USD500-800 for airfare and an additional USD600 for housing. Students participating in the program should expect to bring additional money to cover entertainment and other incidental costs.

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

American Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Written Application