Environmental Anthropology in Madagascar

 

Current Undergraduate Course Websites

The Department is pleased to offer an exciting opportunity for students to take part in a Field Course in Environmental Anthropology in Northern Madagascar. The course will be led by Dr. Ian Colquhoun and Dr. Andrew Walsh. Below you will find information about the upcoming field courses. You can also contact either Dr. Colquhoun or Dr. Walsh for additional information.

 

Northern Madagascar is home to both some of the world’s most spectacular biodiversity, and some of the world’s most valuable natural resources.   Unsurprisingly, different players in the region have very different ideas as to how this natural richness should be best tapped.  While some people advocate the need to conserve what is unique to the region for the sake of the future, others seek to exploit these same resources for whatever benefits they can bring in the present.  Questions inspired by this significant conflict of interests will be our focus in this field course.  

About the Course

In 2008 and 2010 small groups of undergraduate anthropology students from the University of Western Ontario will travel to northern Madagascar with two UWO faculty members  in order to participate in a field course focusing on conservation and development issues in this region.    Following an orientation period on the campus of the University of Antsiranana (Northern Madagascar), students will conduct field trips to a number of northern Malagasy communities and conservation areas.  In the second half of the course, students will collaborate with students from the University of Antsiranana on short research projects organized around a common theme.   

Who is Eligible?

This course is open to third and fourth year Anthropology Majors.  Special consideration will be given to students who are also enrolled in the Environment and Culture Minor. 

Students interested in taking this course should keep in mind that although northern Madagascar is very safe for travelers, living conditions are not what they are in London.  As such, in addition to a desire to learn more about the issues outlined here, participants should possess an intrepid spirit and a willingness to be flexible. 

Course Credit

1.0 credit, 4 weeks in May/June Intersession.

For additional information:

Dr. Ian Colquhoun - colquhou@uwo.ca

Dr. Andrew Walsh - awalsh33@uwo.ca