Teaching Geography in an International Region: Challenges of the Pacific Northwest Borderland

Abstract

Offering a course across an international border, where students and faculty physically travel to both countries throughout the term, raises a host of pedagogical, cartographic, logistic, and cultural challenges. At the same time, two initial classes find the experience rewarding and evaluate the course positively. This paper reviews the offering of a unique cross-border course, outlining its structure, methodology, and outcomes. Major hurdles and issues in this venture into cross-border education are outlined. Directions and expectations for future offerings are suggested.

Key Words:

• international education
• borderland studies
• cross-border teaching and mapping
• Canada-United States co-operation.