Destination: Dubai. “Research in Cultural Settings” Students Study Abroad | March 2023
The Division of Diversity and Inclusion in collaboration with the School of Individualized Studies (SOIS) and RIT Dubai, is offering a course called "Research in Cultural Settings". It is taught by Phillippa Thiuri, assistant vice president for Academic Access and Success, Diversity and Inclusion and Makini Beck, assistant professor, School of Individualized Study and Department of Sociology and Anthropology.
Currently, 13 students are taking the course, representing a myriad of programs and majors. They are seeking to understand the cultural norms and values in society through the exploration of local and international settings. During Spring Break this month, Thiuri and Beck will travel with the class to the United Arab Emirates and apply methodological approaches learned in the course.
While studying abroad in the UAE, students will visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah immersing themselves in the diverse culture of this continuously evolving Middle Eastern society. Students will have the opportunity to explore research questions related to culture, ethnicity, gender, religious belief or non-belief, and social class while participating in daily social and cultural excursion trips.
Thiuri says, "As researchers and educators of color, Dr. Beck and I have a shared vision and dedication to the creation of a brave space for ALANA students to travel and learn. This course is intentional in de-centering research away from a Eurocentric point-of view. This experience is life-changing for all students, and we look forward to another successful study abroad course for RIT students."
James Hall, dean, University Studies, and executive director, SOIS adds, “The School of Individualized Study serves a remarkably diverse student population - including many students who have not been able to plan for international travel or study. For many first generation and AALANA students, advisors find barriers of expectation and resources as we collectively coach towards the transformative value of a global experience. To be able to self-consciously design an experience with these students in mind is a remarkable commitment and innovation.”
RIT Dubai's Kelly Gosa has been instrumental in planning the Dubai portion of this course including providing the opportunity for student engagement with RIT Dubai faculty and students.