I am at an internet cafe and I don’t have a way to upload any photos. Yesterday after Spanish classes in the morning, we regathered at 3 pm to further develop the mini-social sciene project we began earlier in the week. We broke up into 4 groups and each discussed what we had learned and what we could or should do next to learn more. We came back together and had a larger discussion and move into thetopic of study design and methodology. Some things that came up were sample size, who is asking?, discrete categories vs more open ended questions, thesis, leading questions, etc. The students are developing some follow-up small scale studies.
In the evening we play soccer at “Futball Cinco.” Basically, this is indoor small field soccer in an open air but covered area. The majority of students played, and were joined by some homestay brothers and sisters. The atmosphere was light and we all had fun. I will be posted photos of this in the near future.
Today the 4 language classes, with their teachers, went to “La Feria de Agricoltura,” which is basically a farmers market. After buying fruits and vegetables, we took a public bus to a location about 3 miles out of town. This was thoroughly pleasant small country ranch. There was a small stream, big trees, wide expanses of grass and a covered cooking area. (Photos will be posted another time.) We cut fruits and vegetables, played frisbee and soccer, hung out, and some learned a little Costa Rican cooking. We also took some time from relaxing to continue to discuss the social science project regarding recycling in Atenas. We also made plans for tomorrow. Our altered schedule, calls for a free day tomorrow. Students can spend time as they wish, are encouraged to spend time with thier families or go with 3 faculty sponsored activities go San Jose with Juan, to Carrara National Park with Amber, or go to Zoo Aves” Steve. The Cafe is closing. I have to go. Please excuse typos. Oh…. the group celebrated my birthday today pictures more to follow. Thnak you. I enjoyed spending time with teenagers and watching them whack the Pinata. (Some photos will follow)