Classical Italy
For students of the classical era Italy offers a wealth of hugely significant sites and the opportunity to experience places where the three ancient civilizations of the Etruscans, Greeks and Romans interacted. Several days in Rome would afford the opportunity to explore prominent Roman sites such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Pantheon as well as other sites such as the Catacombs and the Baths of Diocletian. Other possible overnight destinations include Naples (founded by the Greeks 2,500 years ago), a good base for touring such sites as the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the island of Capri where Roman Emperors vacationed, and the Greek temples in Paestum on the Amalfi Coast. Finally this tour might include travel to Sicily home to important Greek sites such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Graeco-Roman city of Syracuse. View Photos
Religion
As the birthplace of modern western Christianity and home to Vatican City, Italy has much to offer for a travel study course in religion. In addition to Christian sites, Italy also is home to a number of interesting Jewish, Islamic and Greek and Roman pagan sites. There are so many options, but one possible itinerary might begin in Venice with visits to the St. Mark’s Basilica, Frari Church and the Jewish Ghetto, travel on to Ravenna, with its heavy Byzantine and Arian influence, and then across central Italy to Assisi, made famous by the mendicant monk St. Francis, before moving on the Rome. In addition to Vatican sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, other options in Rome include the Christian catacombs and Roman pagan sites such as the Colusseum and the Temple of Saturn. An alternative route might start in Rome before moving north through Tuscany, to Siena and Pisa, before finishing in Florence. View Photos
Early Childhood Education
The value of early childhood education is self evident in Italy. State run institutions provide free appropriate learning environments for children 3-6 years of age and subsidize education for children 0-3 years of age. Some of the most influential early childhood methodology was developed in Italy, including Montessori and Reggio Emilia.
For students taking courses in early childhood education, a travel study course to Italy is an excellent way to see the foundations of teaching young children. Beginning in Rome and then traveling north to Milan, students will explore components of early childhood education, including visiting Montessori institutions in Perugia and visiting early childhood centers through different Italian cities. Lectures by academics and professionals in early childhood give students additional perspectives in early childhood education. Visits to fascinating sites such as the Vatican in Rome, canals in Venice and ancient cathedrals in Florence complete this travel study course.
View Photos
