Course Information & Announcements

On this program, students will learn the "what" of globalization, and more importantly, will learn "how to learn" about the complex issues associated with the global economy, its impact on the biosphere and China's role in it. Through a semester course orientation, a travel course to China, and follow-on presentations, students will learn basic terminology, concepts and issues associated with the idea of globalization especially as it relates to the bioeconomy, agriculture and natural resources. Students will gain an introduction to the role that globalization is having on China's farming practices and management of forests and water resources. Students will work through the process of developing a case study on one issue relevant to China's agricultural and natural resource economy. In China, ISU students will team with Chinese students at Zhejiang University to further develop the case studies. Through the team project, interviews with Chinese nationals and field visits that correspond to the themes, students will re-evaluate their case studies, expand their understanding of the issue and gain new perspectives in looking at issues related to global economics and its impact on agro- and natural ecosystems.

Term: Summer 2007   Start Date: 5/15/2007  End Date: 6/9/2007