DEVELOPING-WORLD WATER RESOURCES: A PROPOSED INTERNATIONAL SERVICE-LEARNING EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATES

Taylor University is an undergraduate institution with a strong focus on service, stewardship, and world outreach. In keeping with the mission and purpose of the University, the Earth and Environmental Science Department proposes a new program combining community service and outreach in a developing country with academic applications of environmental stewardship in rural water resource development.

This new service-learning program will involve undergraduates enrolled in appropriate cross-cultural and hydrology courses in the fall semester as prerequisites. During January, students will travel overseas for training and project activities related to water resource development, such as well drilling, installing spring caps, and sanitation projects. Opportunities for review and reflection will occur in the spring semester to optimize the students’ technical and service experiences.

Students wishing to focus on international water resources in the new graduate program in Environmental Science may enroll in a Water Resources course in the spring semester in which they will complete pre-service technical training, and cross-cultural orientation. Students completing the course may participate in a four-week international summer practicum experience with one of several non-profit relief and development agencies that provide water resource information, training, equipment and technical support to the rural poor in developing countries. Returing students will reflect on the experience during a post-trip review.

As Taylor University develops this program, we solicit review and suggestions that will optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of the program.