Global Understanding Core and Study Abroad

Can I fulfill the Global Understanding theme of the CORE curriculum through off-campus study?

The Global Core requirement can be fulfilled through participation in most approved GEO programs (see list of qualifying programs below) WHEN students take the orientation course COR 210 “New Perspectives in Global Understanding I” before off-campus study and COR211 “New Perspectives in Global Understanding II” upon re-entry.

What is COR210 and 211 and why do I need it?

COR210 New Perspectives I (0-credit) consists of one all-day Saturday session taken the semester BEFORE you study off-campus. $50 lab fee applies.

This course equips students to reflect purposefully upon the theory and praxis of what it means to be citizen-sojourners rather than passive onlookers or blithe consumers of “culture”.  It examines the interpretation of cultural difference, ethnocentrism, transitioning and crossing cultural boundaries. It addresses how culture shapes behaviour and values--an issue that will soon be lived reality for off-campus students.

COR211 New Perspectives in Global Understanding 2 (0-credit) consists of a Friday evening event and one all-day Saturday session the semester when you return to campus. $50 lab fee applies.

Nobody knows better than a returning student the inadequacy of the question “How was your semester abroad?" It's almost an impossible question. Returning students occupy a unique space between homeland and “foreign home,” and the integration of the two is a complicated journey that requires both time and space. This course equips students to ask the deeper questions of their global experience and take up the challenge of being a citizen-sojourner.

Who can take COR210/211 and how do I register?

Students planning to study off campus in qualifying semester programs and international seminars should register with their advisors. (See upcoming COR210/211 dates and times below.) On your GEO application for study abroad you'll also be asked to indicate that you have or will be registering for the course.

What if I'm not doing a GEO program?

If you're participating in an SMP, see the Chapel Office or the GEO for the "Petition for Alternate Credit Global Understanding Core" and submit that form to the GEO for review by the GE Committee of the Faculty. (Please note that Dr. Carmer needs to sign off as the advisor on that Petition form.)If your SMP is approved for Global core credit, then  BCM225 will stand in for COR210 when taken for credit (**per college policy auditing cannot fulfill academic requirements) and you will be required to participate in COR211 upon your return to campus.

Petitions for SMPs need to be filed with the GE Committee before March 1st!

Students seeking Global Understanding Core for experiences that are hitherto unapproved or which were taken prior to their time at Gordon (i.e. transfer students) need to complete the "Petition for Alternate Credit Global Understanding Core." Most students seeking alternate credit will be required to participate in these courses. Petition form available at the GEO, Jenks 426.

PLEASE NOTE:  Petitions need to be filed in a timely fashion in order to get you registered for appropriate COR210 and 211 classes.

Please contact the GEO with questions you may have. Stop in or email us at geogordon.edu.