Each summer since 1994, Partners with Russia has collaborated with the Sodruzhestvo Center to organize annual International Economics Camps. These camps offer Russian high school students the chance to receive training critical for life in a new Russia. Teachers attending the camp receive a valuable professional development opportunity. More than 200 students and their teachers attend these camps from cities across Russia to deepen their understanding of market economics and to enhance their skills in English language, personal computer use and micro-enterprise development.
Students attending the camps take part in the Sodruzhestvo Center’s
innovative educational program which includes:
Lectures by Russian and American educators on topics such as market economic theory, management, finance and accounting;
Instruction in market economic dynamics using computer simulations;
Group learning activities, including team competitions in business plan development and stock market analysis;
Hands-on instruction in the use of personal computers and business software; and,
English
language and culture study.
During he camp Russian students also are able to interact with American high school students, improving their English language skills and gaining a deeper understanding of American culture. The camp also features a Russian cultural program, enabling American students to gain an appreciation for Russia's rich culture. Teachers attending the camp take part in workshops offered by Russian and visiting American educators in various aspects of teaching applied market economics. As has become the tradition at the International Economics Camps, teachers from the two countries learn from each other’s experience and gain a greater understanding of the challenges each faces in educating their students during times of great global change. Also, as has become a tradition, friendships are formed between teachers that result in educational collaborations that continue long after the camps end.
The International Economics Camps have received numerous awards in national
competitions. In addition, the Sodruzhestvo Center has received several special
commendations from the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation in
recognition of the contributions made by the international economics camp
program to raising the level of understanding of market economics among both
students and teachers.