The Texas Parks Field School (May 16 - June 1, 2022)

Offered during the Maymester (3W1 Session), the Texas Parks Field School (GEOG 4885) includes activities in Lost Maples State Natural Area, Seminole Canyon State Park, Big Bend National Park, Davis Mountains State Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Students camp, hike, and learn about the geography and the environment of each park. As well, the parks serve as the basis for four comparative research activities:

1. West Texas Geography: through participant observation and group discussions, students learn about the history, culture, and environment of West Texas.
2. Place, Perspective, and Landscape Change: using historical photographs, students explore parks to locate the photo sites and use rephotography to engage with ideas of place and how past, present, and future emerge through photographed landscapes.
3. Museum Geography: students use a museum geography perspective and discourse analysis to examine and compare park visitor centers.
4. Biogeography: students learn to identify plants and biogeographical variations on the landscape, and they examine and compare ecosystem transition zones among sky islands in West Texas.

To apply, complete and submit the application form and personal statement to Professor Fry by February 1, 2022.