Monroe Community College, New York, United States
Strategic Partner: Fundación Universitaria Tecnológico Comfenalco, Colombia
Monitoring Coastline Water Quality in Cartagena, Colombia Using GIS Technology and Spanish Consultants: A Hybrid Study Abroad Program between Monroe Community College and Fundación Universitaria Tecnológico Comfenalco
Monroe Community College (MCC), in partnership with Fundación Universitaria Tecnológico Comfenalco (Tecnológico Comfenalco), will implement an innovative, hybrid study abroad experience that integrates virtual learning through the use of Collaborative Online Virtual Learning (COIL) and bilateral student exchange. Three student groups—MCC GIS students, MCC Spanish language students, and Environmental Engineering students from Tecnológico Comfenalco—will work collaboratively to use the power of geographical information systems (GIS) and apps to visually display the complex dynamics of the human-physical environment. Participating Spanish language students, with guidance from faculty, will provide interpretation between GIS students and Environmental Engineering students as they support the development of mapping apps to monitor water quality and support humanitarian mapping efforts along the coastline of Cartagena, Colombia.