Independent Study Project (ISP) Possibilities in Morocco
We hope you are getting excited about your upcoming journey to Morocco. In the next few weeks we encourage you to explore what particularly interests you about Morocco as this topic--or topics--could be something you could explore further while in Morocco.
Here is a list of possible independent study project (ISP) topics. There are endless possibilities for ISPs, so use this list as a starting point for what subject matter you would like to dive into once we hit Moroccan soil. It's always helpful to give your ISP some thought before we arrive. The following ideas can be enriched with photographs, creative writing pieces, or a video or audio documentary, so tap into your creative source.
* Moroccan/Islamic Architecture
* Zillij (Moroccan tilework) Artistry and Artisans
* Fassi Pottery
* Moroccan Wood Carving and/or Painting
* Calligraphy
* Moroccan Music
* Moroccan Cuisine
* Moroccan Literature
* The medinas of Fes and Marrakech: How to Balance Cultural
Preservation and Progress
* Modernization & Traditionalism in Morocco: Elements of Compatibility and Potential Conflict
* Manifestations of Islam in Everyday Moroccan Life
* Moroccan Jewish Heritage/Traditions
* Berber Identity: What is it and How it's Being Preserved
* Contemporary Art in Morocco
* Berber Jewelry-Making
* The Basis of the Moroccan Economy: the H'noot (think "general store" but in a cubbyhole)
* The role and state of women in Moroccan society
* Popular Political Thought - Islam & Democracy
* Bellydancing
* Pressing Moroccan Social/Economic Issues: Homelessness/Street Children; Unwed Mothers; Unemployment
* An Exploration of Public and Private Space in Moroccan Society
* The Socio-cultural role of the Hammam (the public baths)
* A Survey of Environmental Initiatives in Morocco (recycling, solar, wind, wildlife & habitat conservation)
* The Economic and Cultural Impact of Sub-Saharan Immigrants in Morocco
* Morocco - US Free Trade Agreement: Analyzing its Successes, Promise, and Shortcomings
* Herbal/Medicinal Remedies and Practices
* Oral Traditions/Stories Indigenous to Fes and Marrakech
* Darija (Moroccan Arabic dialect)
* Modern Standard Arabic
* French