Project Title: Educational Study Tour of Peru
Project Author: Carole Drachler (Mesa)
Abstract: Write a concise summary with descriptive information about your project, location, time span, your relationship to it, etc. Include specific information-- since you have completed your project, your knowledge is valuable and can be shared with your colleagues.
This project was inspired by the decision to transform the art history survey into a global curriculum. By researching and visiting unique sites in Peru over a twelve day period, I was able to bring back to the classroom a first hand perspective of historical pre-Inca, Inca, and Spanish colonial architecture and artifacts as well as Peruvian art museums. The study included the gathering of pertinent literature and the photographing of major art sites. Eight days were spent following the excursion to study the materials and organize the slides for classroom presentations.
Outcomes: In a paragraph or two describe what worked well. Did you accomplish your objective(s)? Were you able to complete your summer project as written? If not, what did you modify and why? What did not go as well as expected, if anything? Were there any surprises? Note: Use the questions as guides for your outcomes. Do not include detailed list of workshops attended, speakers who presented, or a list of items you have seen, heard, or read.
My goal was to experience the Peruvian culture first-hand in the same manner one assimilates the experience of western European art. The itinerary was the product of extensive research beforehand to insure that major art museums and architectural sites were the focus of the trip. Sites selected were indeed relevant in providing the understanding and knowledge needed to incorporate these new ideas into my teaching. The eight-day post-travel period to process the material was also useful. I was able to read the books, organize and label the slides shot on the excursions and select additional materials to photograph after reviewing the project. The experience has also prompted further research into the culture of Peru. I feel the project was successful and the allotted time was adequate.
Professional Growth: Your own professional growth is a large part of your project. Your professional growth is important to you, your students, your college, and possibly other colleagues. How did project affect you professionally? What skills did you learn? What environments were you working in and how might your summer project influence your teaching or other responsibilities? Did you gain a different perspective? Was it professionally valuable for you?
As an art historian, it is extremely helpful to be able to study original works of art. Viewing images of art and cultural sites is a unique experience that furthers one’s academic perspective. Many chronological and stylistic connections with other ancient civilizations (Mesoamerican, Egyptian, Mesopotamian, prehistoric) have surfaced and will entail further study. I also researched each site/topic/museum before each visit thereby enriching the experience. This exposure should help me to analyze and to discuss Peruvian culture. The trip afforded me the opportunity to acquire new materials that have been recently published and available only on site. As a result of this summer project, I emerge as a more knowledgeable art historian and energized teacher.
Dissemination: How will you share this information with your colleagues, department, students, or college?
Students will benefit from the unique educational tools I assembled. Material will be added to the instructional bulletin boards that line the classroom walls and adjacent halls. Purchased books will be loaned to students. I have taken slides at the various cultural locations as well as from the newly acquired books that will provide a wealth of new information for the classes. Students will benefit from the exposure to a new culture. By personalizing the travel experience in the classroom, students often gain a new perspective for geography and cultural diversity as well as an enthusiasm for travel. They will be exposed to new themes and ideas. As the only full-time art history faculty member at MCC, I will be sharing these educational materials with adjunct faculty.
For more information about this project, check out the "package" in the Maricopa Learning eXchange:
http://www.mcli.dist.maricopa.edu/mlx/slip.php?item=01855