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About Us
 The Monteverde Institute (MVI) is a member-governed Costa Rican not-for-profit association dedicated to education, applied research, and community engagement. Founded in 1986, MVI from its inception has facilitated place-based, experiential learning in education abroad, grounded in the environmental, social, economic and cultural realities of Monteverde communities, while at the same time promoting research and community development activities relevant to Monteverde. Through the participation of international students, faculty, researchers, and the local community, MVI’s programs and projects have evolved to be both locally focused and globally relevant – a unique interplay between a world community and a particular locale.
“Education for a Sustainable Future” is the core theme of all of MVI’s programs.
At MVI, we believe that sustainability requires consideration of environmental, social, cultural, economic, and technical factors equally. The complex and multifaceted issues faced in Monteverde and around the world call for multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary study and professional practice. The cornerstone of MVI’s approach is its synergism between international study, applied research, and community engagement.
Areas of focus. The Monteverde Institute has several areas of focus that reflect the complex issues faced by the Monteverde zone and around the world. All of our programs, whether they be a study abroad program, an applied research project, or community forum, reflect these areas:
- Water
- Ecotourism
- Conservation biology
- Community Health
- Land use and sustainable development
- Spanish language and culture
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Facilities at the Monteverde Institute
The Monteverde Institute campus is located in the center of the Monteverde community, adjacent to the historic Monteverde Cheese Factory and surrounded by hundreds of acres of protected area. Our facilities include:
 The John & Doris Campbell Library.
Open Monday to Friday:
8 am to 5 pm.The Campbell Library was created with the generous support of John and Doris Campbell, one of the original Quaker families to settle in Monteverde. With continued support from the Campbell family and other donors and supporters, the Campbell Library supports local and international scholarship and research and serves as a physical and digital clearinghouse for information on Monteverde. The library includes space for 24 persons.
Computer lab and high-speed wireless access. Housed in the Campbell Library, the computer lab includes over a dozen computers for public and student use, all equipped with frequently used and specialized software packages. Additionally, the computer lab offers access to scanners, printers, a plotter for map printing and other large graphics, as well as a photocopier, fax machine, projectors, and other equipment. Wireless access is available throughout the main campus.
 Auditorium. With capacity for 60 persons, the auditorium is available as classroom space, a meeting hall, and for public presentations.
Classrooms. MVI has a variety of classrooms available. These include:
Laboratories. Two equipped laboratories measuring 18 m² are available:
- Wet laboratory. Includes dual-pan sink, refrigerator, microscope, stereoscope, scales ventilator, water testing equipment, work table, and basic laboratory chemicals and equipment.
- Dry laboratory. Sink, counter, basic lab equipment.
Both laboratories include desks, file space, and book shelves.
Additionally, MVI has other equipment available including GPS units, nets, a wind meter, and a variety of testing kits for use during courses.
The Monteverde Institute Reserve. The 32 acre reserve is located behind the main campus, and adjoins the Bosque Eterno S.A., the first private reserve in Monteverde created by the founders of the Quaker community. The MVI reserve includes primary and secondary growth cloud forest with trails throughout, and is available for research and recreational use.
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Contact us |
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Want to know more about the Monteverde Institute?
Interested developing a study abroad program?
Want to visit our facilities? Please Contact Us |
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