Get curious
being informed
module 3:
goals of this module
You will enhance analytical thinking to evaluate the context, purpose, and bias of the information encountered, particularly in current events and political history.
You will foster an understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultural values, religious beliefs, and spiritual practices encountered during the program.
You will learn about the foundation in the political history relevant to the regions visited, along with an awareness of current political climates.
You will be challenged to confront and engage with multiple narratives and perspectives, especially those that are marginalized or differ from their own.
what will you do in this module?
Research about the place you will be visiting and identify credible sources, understand media bias, and the basics of fact-checking.
Use websites and apps to research on specific cultural practices, beliefs, or values of the destination.
Analyze documents to understand the historical context. For example, read recent news articles related to the political climate of the destination.
Find and summarize stories or articles from diverse perspectives, including marginalized voices.
Seeking Knowledge
Understanding the world around us enriches our travel experiences and fosters global citizenship. Being well-informed encourages meaningful interactions and promotes respect for diversity.
POLITICAL HISTORY
Knowledge of a country's political history provides context for its current state and societal dynamics. Helps understand the root causes of current events and societal structures. Doing some research on the location can give you a better context of your destination.
- What is the current political context of my destination and what is the opinion on it?
By doing a quick initial search about the current political context, you won't become an expert in the matter but it will create a context of the current situation and how it came to be that way. Additionally, it is important to come up with new questions about specific details.
- Reinforce the introductory context with online resources
Once you have a broad understanding of the political dynamics, to learn more about the why's and the how's use online resources such as books, podcasts, documentaries and academic journals.
- What are the most important Museums and Cultural Institutions?
By researching about these places, you can get a broader context of the historical, political and cultural legacy of your destination.
CURRENT EVENTS
Staying updated on current events offers insights into the lives and challenges faced by local communities. Enables travelers to engage responsibly and sensitively with the host community and it helps you prepare for your experience and make the most out of it.
RESEARCH...
1.Find one current event in the destination that you are traveling to.
2. Find different media outlets and compare what they have to say about the same issue.
3. Look for alternative sources such as social media personalities or independent journalists.
4. Go over these resources and analyze how both sides present the same topics with different perspectives.
TIP TO AVOID BIASES
Try finding different sources with multiple points of view on the same issue.
Religion / Spirituality
Exploring the religious and spiritual beliefs of a destination can deepen understanding of local customs and values. It facilitates respectful interaction with spiritual sites and practices.
Research the following:
1.What is the predominant religion along with other religions and belief systems present in the country?
2. Do localized research since in many destinations this characteristic can be location specific.
3. Ask about cultural norms, such as appropriate interactions and dressing and prepare and pack accordingly.
TIP: Respect these norms even if you don't share them.
Check out the following resources for extra help:
Cultural Values
Every culture has unique values that shape the behavior and attitudes of its people. Recognizing and appreciating these values enhances mutual respect and integration.
Local festivals, workshops, and interact with locals to learn about their values and way of life.
About food and music. These aspects are usually a door into more detailed aspects of the culture.
Check out this resources to learn more!
Look into the following:
Remember to respect these norms and traditions.
Confronting narratives
Multiple perspectives on history and current events can challenge and expand our understanding. Encourages critical thinking and empathy towards differing viewpoints. Read diverse sources of information, engage in dialogues with locals and fellow travelers, and attend lectures or debates.
Watch this video to learn the importance of multiple perspectives and how hearing only a single story about another person or country can lead to misunderstandings.
- Take notes
- After watching the video write down what you learned
Do:
Listen Actively and Empathetically
Maintain Respect and Openness
Critical Thinking and Self-Reflection
Use Questions to Clarify and Engage
Find Common Ground
Educate Yourself
now you are ready to go to your destination
