Six distinctive features characterize the ICRP projects, regardless of where they are completed, and should guide you in the selection and implementation of your particular project-

(1) Emphasis on "hands on" human interaction-your project should allow you to interact with local people outside of the usual academic environment in a systematic, integrated way.
(2) Choice of the project topic, type, and scope-the project should reflect your own goals, interests, and skills. Although you will need to consult with the local project coordinator who will ultimately approve your topic, you may exercise wide latitude in selecting the sort of project you wish to pursue in the host city; however, the project should give you an opportunity to apply what you are experiencing to your academic experience and to interact with a diverse group of people within the local culture.
· Service and volunteer projects
· Cultural Externships or Internships-participation in some facet of the local culture
· Life histories
(3) Choice of methodology-in consultation with the project coordinator, you'll have wide latitude with respect to the information-gathering method(s) you choose to employ in your project.
(4) Systematic research (cf: Describe, Interpret, Evaluate)
· Consistent journaling
· Painstaking interpretation
(5) Cultural insight (cf: DIE)
· Insight into the particular cultural activity or aspect you've selected
· Insight into the larger culture and/or social structure of the host country
(6) Advising and mentoring from a local project coordinator and also a site supervisor
· Selection of topics and methods
· Introductions and first contacts
· Review of journal notes
· Interpretation

Guiding Questions for ICRPs
* What is the main activity of the placement? What was produced?
*What are the goals and mission of the organization?
*Where does this particular organization stand in relation to similar ones in the city? In the region? In the state? In the country?
*Whom does this organization serve?
*How do people view this organization and its mission?
*What problems and tasks are to be accomplished?
*How was this done?
*How successful is the organization?
*What are the basic skills and knowledge needed to work for this organization?
*What would be a typical day or week in the organization?
*What were your responsibilities?
*What contribution did you make to help the organization achieve its goals?

The project can consist of a collection of life histories, a study of some facet of the local culture, a service project, or some other form. Start thinking early in the fall about what aspect of the culture you would like to study. In discussing your plans with the ICRP supervisor you will receive more specific instruction. The ICRP must be conducted in your host program location, and you will be required to keep extensive notes of the time you spend conducting your project. The paper must be turned into your ICRP supervisor before the end of the academic program or no credit will be awarded.