American Universities in the Middle East: The Qatar Experience

January 7 - January 22, 2010

EDCP 789E (3 Credits)

Educational developments in Qatar over the past decade and a half provide a unique context to explore the complexities facing the American model of higher education in an international context.  The Qatar Foundation has worked with six American universities to establish branch campuses in Doha.  Faculty and staff at these branch campuses are faced every day with the challenges of modifying the American model of higher education to meet the needs of an international and incredibly diverse student body. Through cultural activities and engagement with local student affairs professionals, students will learn about Qatari and Arab history and culture, identify similarities and differences between Qatari and American higher education, explore the unique challenges and opportunities in implementing and adapting American higher education in Qatar, and reflect on ways in which their increased knowledge about working with diverse groups and international students can be applied to their professional practice.

Itinerary
This study abroad experience will begin with activities designed to enable students to better understand Qatari culture and society.  This may include visits to the Islamic Education Center, the Islamic Art Museum, a traditional market (souk), and the Al Jazeera news network. Next, students will engage with the Qatar Foundation and Education City, Qatar University, and branch campus staff in a professional development institute.  Inquiry-based learning teams will be formed that combine students with staff in analyzing essential issues that are critical to the success of the branch campus models.  Possible topics include culturally-derived views of education and its role as perceived by students and families, career commitment as a function of family and tribe influence coupled with the capacity-building needs of the state of Qatar, and community building through academic, residential and co-curricular experiences in order to reach experientially and culturally diverse students.

Accommodations
Students will stay in hotels (double rooms).  There may be an option for students to stay with local student affairs staff. 
 

Faculty & Staff

Dr. Susan R. Komives is a Professor in the College Student Personnel Graduate program. She is president of the Council for the Advancement of Standards. In April 2008 she consulted with the Qatar Foundation and campus staffs at Education City in Doha.

Beth Niehaus is a doctoral student in the College Student Personnel program at the University of Maryland.  Her research interests include global leadership, study abroad, and Alternative Break programs. 
Please contact Ms. Niehaus regarding program and course information. 

For questions about the application, registration and pre-departure logistics, please contact the Study Abroad Office at 301-314-7473.