Center for Latin American Studies

Professional Development

CLAS is a National Resource Center for Latin America

CLAS NRC sponsors a variety of professional development activities for teachers who wish to improve their understanding of Latn America and those who are looking for new and innovative ways to incorporate Latin America into their classroom lessons. All events are free of charge and can be hosted either at Georgetown University or at any other school location (alternative locations must be requested and arranged at least six weeks in advance).  Opportunities include several day-long workshops each semester; certification/development points; lectures on Latin American culture and history; and funding support for K-12 teachers and undergraduate professors who  will participate in any summer institute organized by a Title VI National Resource Center.

 

WORKSHOPS

Past workshops have addressed revolutionary movements in Latin America; the culture and arts of Brazil; and politics and painting in the work of Ecuadorean artist Oswaldo Guayasamin.

 

Upcoming workshops:
 
The Different Faces of the Spanish Conquest

September 19th, 2009 10am to 4pm, ICC 450
Georgetown University

This free workshop aims to expand teacher understanding of the events surrounding the various conquest campaigns in Latin America. This topic was chosen to help teachers with themes related to Hispanic Heritage month. The workshop will illustrate how the unique social/political circumstances at the time facilitated or made it more difficult for the conquistadors to accomplish their mission. Special attention will be placed on the campaigns by Hernando Cortes and Francisco Pizarro.



The Art and History of Capoeira

October 3rd, 2009 10am to 4pm, ICC 113
Georgetown University
 
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form which combines elements of martial arts, games, dance, and music.  It was created in 16th century Brazil by African slaves brought mainly from present day Angola. 
This free workshop will focus on exploring the history of capoeira in Brazil. This workshop will explore the origins and its application in Brazil and a particular emphasis on cultural syncretism. The workshop will be divided into two sections. The first will be a lecture-style workshop. The second will feature a live capoeira presentation with an opportunity to learn some basic moves.



The Influence of African Religions on Latin America: Voodo, Santeria, Orixas

November 14th, 2009 10am to 4pm, ICC 105
Georgetown University

Ever wondered how various religions developed in Latin America? This workshop will focus on how different cultural interchanges helped shape religions in Latin America. Special attention will be paid to the African influence in the development of religions such as voodoo, Santeria and Orixas.

To Register, email RamirezM@Georgetown.edu with the following information:

Name
School
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
Names of Workshops to Register 

 

CERTIFICATION

CLAS NRC and the Georgetown University School for Continuing Studies offer a certification option, which satisfied the development points requirements of several public school systems in the Washington area. Teachers who are interested in the certificate should contact the Associate Director of Outreach and External Affairas.

 

LECTURES

CLAS sponsors at least one, and often up to three, lectures on campus in any given week during the academic year. All lectures are listed on our events calendar, and you can register to attend using the calendar's RSVP tool.  These events last one to two hours and cover all aspects of Latin America.  Presenters range from policy makers to academics to non-profit sector leaders.  Most events are brown bag-style and take place during the lunch hour.

 

SUMMER INSTITUTES

Many National Resource Centers across the country sponsor summer institutes which allow K-12 teachers to undertake in-depth study of a specific Latin America-related topic for one to two weeks.  We circulate lists of upcoming summer institutes through our mailing list.  We also offer limited funding to support the cost of travel and lodging to attend a summer institute not in the local area.  More information about grant support can be found on our Funding page.

Georgetown University