Effective Communication in Spanish

Program Locations

San José, Tortuguero, Arenal, Turrialba, and Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica

Program Highlights

• Music, Dance, and Cultural Expression — Experience traditional and contemporary forms including Bomba, plena, reggaeton, calypso, and folkloric dance.
• Culinary Traditions and Gastronomy — Discover iconic dishes such as mofongo, arroz con gandules, casado, and gallo pinto as reflections of cultural heritage.
• Indigenous Heritage and Cultural Roots — Examine the lasting influence of Taíno and Bribri communities on modern identity and traditions.
• Visual and Urban Arts Exploration — Analyze murals, street art, and prominent artists shaping cultural expression in both regions.
• Folklore and Storytelling Traditions — Engage with myths and legends such as La Segua, El Cadejos, and traditional Caribbean narratives.
• Environmental Identity and Sustainability — Study ecological preservation, eco-tourism, and environmental movements in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica.
• Sports and National Identity — Understand the cultural significance of baseball in Puerto Rico and soccer in Costa Rica.
• Academic Engagement and Applied Learning — Complete written assignments, group and individual presentations, and reflective writing.
• International Travel Experience — Travel to San José, Costa Rica for immersive, on-site cultural and academic learning.

Course Description

This program will provide students of different levels to immerse themselves in Spanish-speaking cultures. Students may enroll in either SPAN 200 or SPAN 370. The cultural activities and guided tours will be shared by students enrolled in both courses, but class instruction will be conducted separately.

Spanish 200 in Costa Rica is designed for students who have studied Spanish for 3 years in high school and wish to develop their language skills and cultural knowledge through real-world application and hands-on experience in an immersive environment. This course combines classroom instruction with dynamic activities and interactive experiences to deepen students’ knowledge of the Spanish language, Costa Rican history and culture, and cross-cultural abilities. With two weeks on-site in Costa Rica, students will see the direct relevance of course content through real-world language application, show their learning through practical, creative assessments, and cultivate their ability to be intercultural ambassadors.

Spanish 370 Seminar Abroad is structured around cultural themes and taught on-site with an instructor who has academic expertise in the region. Themes include creative expressions, music, gastronomy, urban culture, murals, literature, and art. Activities encompass lectures, guided tours of sites, and other cultural events. Students will continue to develop their language skills through class assignments and real-life experiences in the target language. Assignments include readings, oral presentations, and short essays. This course counts as an elective for the Spanish minor and major.