The 2012 J-Term Course: Challenges to Peacebuilding in Nepal course is designed to supplement and complement conflict resolution theories and concepts learned in the classroom with real-world examples on the nature of conflict, its impact on people, peacebuilding initiatives and the kinds of actors involved in rebuilding and bringing peace to a country. It will take place from the January 11-25, 2012 and will be led by Monterey Institute Professor Pushpa Iyer. Furthermore, students will learn to deal with the complexities of conducting field research, developing data collection instruments, and summarizing data for a qualitative analysis.

The money we raise will benefit the selected students in a few ways. A very important aspect to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in specific is understanding the conflict and context before one arrives in-country. Therefore, we are inviting a distinguished Nepalese activist and academic to host a pre-departure workshop. While the students will already be familiar with the conflict background, this will allow them to take a closer look at the details involved in peacebuilding on the ground and give them an opportunity to direct questions to an expert.

After this training takes place, the students will ready themselves for departure with class discussions, readings, documentary screenings, and assignments. In Nepal, they will learn the methodologies for collecting and undertaking peacebuilding field research in a specific conflict context. Upon return, they will participate in a debriefing workshop, publish a working paper, and present at conferences.

The goals of this course are fivefold:

1. to expand the worldview and knowledge of our students, teach them how to collect empirical data, and learn about conflict and its effects firsthand in a field study program
2. to participate in coursework that will provide a broader and deeper understanding of this particular country and conflict
3. to provide students as future conflict resolution practitioners with some of the training needed to their further careers
4. to give a voice to civil society and peacebuilding actors in Nepal through our own publications and presentations online and in the Monterey Bay Area
5. to provide Nepalese organizations with our research findings and recommendations