Faculty-Led Study Abroad in Atmospheric Science Education

Abstract

al years the University of Wisconsin?Milwaukee's Atmospheric Science group has offered the faculty-led study abroad program Mexico: Air Pollution and Ancient Cultures. In this course, open to both atmospheric science majors and nonmajors as well as to students attending other colleges and universities, participating students learn about the corrosive effects of acid deposition on the limestone surfaces of Mesoamerican archaeological sites. The course content includes not only the science aspects of acid rain and environmental corrosion, but also aspects of Mesoamerican history and anthropology, as well as personal reflection on a variety of social science topics via journaling. The academic content is delivered via lectures and laboratories, guided tours of museums and archaeological sites, visits to Mexican universities, and hands-on measurements and analysis. Postprogram surveys indicate that participating students consider the program to be quite valuable in terms of both academic and personal growth.