Pandemics cause widespread grief and destruction of human life. In addition to COVID-19, various forms of disease and their consequences in health persist in societies around the world and continue to affect large, often particularly vulnerable, populations. 

Through the virtual study abroad experience, students will have the opportunity to supplement learning from experienced professors at the top university in Peru with conversations with the EdOdyssey team surrounding various Peruvian cultural topics. Students will be enrolled in a virtual two-credit course at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, a prestigious university in Lima. 

This unique course offering, Pandemics, Global History & Peruvian Society, forms a part of Virtual Study Abroad and engages students in a range of conversations relevant to global public health. Students interested in health topics, international studies, or learning more about different cultures will gain knowledge surrounding the causes, responses, and results of pandemics throughout modern history. 

To contextualize the knowledge learned during the course, students will engage in a weekly cultural module with the EdOdyssey team in Peru. Learn more about the course and how you’ll also have an opportunity to extend your knowledge beyond the virtual classroom!

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE ON PANDEMICS IN PERU

A particularly unique aspect of this virtual study abroad experience is the support which students will receive from the EdOdyssey team in Lima, Peru. One of our team members, Luis Garcia, graduated from PUCP and continues to live in Lima. As EdOdyssey’s Cultural Advisor for EdOdyssey’s Study Abroad program, he shares some remarks on why he is excited for this course: 

“This course ties current events with historical records, how countries and governments have reacted to pandemic situations in the past, and what consequences those decisions had in their societies. Outbreaks like the Spanish flu resulted in tremendous loss of lives and there is much to be learned about how we can take on those subjects at a multidisciplinary level. 

Fast forward to now, Peruvian policy and decisions on how to confront the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in negative consequences for the economy. I’m excited about this course because it opens discussions about how developing countries face different challenges when shelter in place is recommended, as their economy relies heavily on day to day activities. 

Much has been said also about how societies comply with health-related recommendations such as mask wearing. In Peruvian culture, why do most Peruvians still go outside despite the virus? Some say they need to do so in order to survive economically. These needs need to be taken into account when shelter in place is recommended. Without considering the peoples’ needs, the Peruvian economy may be irreconcilably damaged.” 

RELEVANCE TO GLOBAL CURRENT EVENTS

Incorporating the cultural module alongside the course offered at PUCP will provide students with an opportunity to use the knowledge learned in class and to discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic and other pandemics have affected both Peruvian society and U.S. society. Moreover, students will discuss how different governments responded to the current pandemic, thinking about ways in which responses could have been improved to best protect the community. 

Discussions about different pandemics throughout history will highlight how different cultures, socioeconomic realities, and geographical regions are disproportionately vulnerable to pandemics and other major health crises. Learning about global inequalities positions students to go forth in the future and combat injustices and find solutions to such inequalities. 

COMBINING (VIRTUAL) CLASSROOM AND CULTURE

During this program, students will learn about Peruvian culture with the EdOdyssey team in order to best put new knowledge from their PUCP course into context. Various presenters and presentations will cover different themes related to Peruvian society, culture, and life, helping students to best understand the course material. 

Additionally, there will be numerous opportunities to ask questions to and hear from people with different perspectives. Professors, study abroad alumni, EdOdyssey founder, team members from Peru, staff, and interns will all be sharing their experiences, insights and knowledge with students, and more than willing to answer questions!

WHO IS THE IDEAL STUDENT FOR THIS COURSE?

Students who have a curiosity and passion for expanding their global knowledge surrounding public health, policy, and history, will thrive in this engaging educational opportunity.

Health topics, such as pandemics, affect all societies and responses require teamwork amongst numerous participants and organizations. Whether you are thinking about or pursuing a career in government, health professions, social services, or international studies, this course will touch on relevant ideas and important topics that you may find important as you navigate your professional career. 

The course will also be instructed in English, providing access to those who are interested in the relevant themes and have English as their dominant language. The course is Peru-centric and taught by Peruvian professors, but NO prior Spanish knowledge is required! 

MAKE THE MOST OF OUR GLOBALIZED WORLD

Education during this Fall semester and headed into 2021 is going to look different than what most of us are used to. New technologies are being integrated into classrooms and virtual teaching in order to progress student learning and ensure safety for all as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. 

EdOdyssey’s new Virtual Study Abroad program, that integrates PUCP courses with a cultural module, is a great way to jump on the bandwagon of new educational experiences and take advantage of the ability to engage with and learn from people on another continent. There is always something new to learn from those who have different life experiences and expertise!

Want to learn more about virtual study abroad?