Summer Field Studies

The ACC Field Studies Program for advanced students of Chinese combines field experiences in rural China with advanced language courses for a 7-week total immersion.

Program Dates: June 09 - July 31, 2016
Application Deadline: February 25, 2016

Field Experience

Engage in a comparative study of U.S. and China's contemporary society and educational systems through hands-on projects with a focus on education in a rural area

Study for three weeks in the field. Logistical on-site support provided by ACC and local Chinese education agencies & NGOs. Location for summer 2016: Beijing, China
Create an educational development presentation. When applying to the program, a presentation proposal must be submitted.
- Each student develops, with the support of faculty, a presentation that is to be delivered at two conferences/workshops for Chinese school teachers.
- The Education and Science Society (ESS) is a co-sponsor of the education conferences in China where students give their presentations. ESS is an NGO with more than 20 years of experience in promoting quality of education in rural China.
Teach at two day camps in rural schools: At each 1 week camp, participants will teach 3 different subjects, teaching 4 classes each day.
Travel to cultural sites & rural schools. If the situation allows, participants will live at a local resident's house and have their meals there.
Participate in a 1-week post-evaluation session and preparation for outreach activities. Students will reflect, share, and summarize their experiences teaching at the day camps and participating at the education conference; a final evaluation exam will also be held.

Advanced Language Instruction

Three-week intensive Chinese language courses & culture lectures about China in Beijing.
Focus on advanced language & culture studies, including: grammar, discourse & lexical development, and conversation & presentation skills.
Gain a greater understanding of Chinese primary education, spend time revising presentation, and practicing teaching methods.
Native-speaking faculty with extensive experience teaching foreign students.
Earn two undergraduate units from Hamilton College (typically eight academic credits)

Summer Course Descriptions

Outreach Activities

Upon returning to the U.S., participants are required to share their field experiences in China with their home community, local public schools and college communities. Read more ...