Field Work

The challenges of sustainable development cannot be understood through classroom teaching alone. It is only through an intensive, direct experience that an in-depth understanding can be gradually developed that will lead to real solutions.

The program, therefore, integrates a strong component of experiential learning in its curriculum that includes prolonged immersion in field sites, either in Israel or in sites in developing countries, where students engage in applied research and fieldwork. Students in the program form bridges between technology providers (including in Israel) and the realities of low-income communities by designing, adapting, and field-testing promising solutions that combine innovative technologies and business models.

Students are encouraged to conduct their fieldwork within existing sites where TAU faculty are working with local academic, government, NGO, and industry partners. In particular, projects run by the Nitsan Lab at TAU (nitsanlab.org) offer ample opportunities for students to get involved and try out their ideas in real settings in several dedicated sites in India and Africa.

Fieldwork typically lasts for 2-4 months and takes place in teams of 3-5 students. Program faculty closely guide all students throughout to ensure their work is impactful, rigorous, data-driven, and evidence-based.