Cycling Taiwan: A Virtual Multi-Disciplinary Introduction to the History and Culture of Taiwan
Created by Anne Prescott and Yurika Kurakata
Special thanks to
Prof. Li-Hsin Chen, National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, Taiwan
Sherry Tsou, Cycling Culture Museum, Taichung (Giant Bicycle)
Sheron Wang, Cycling Lifestyle Foundation, Taipei (Giant Bicycle)
Funded by a generous grant from the Freeman Foundation
Download the curriculum for use in your classroom. (Download link below in the lower left corner.)
Participants cycle (both virtually and the distance in reality) 612.1 miles around Taiwan, completing readings, viewing webinars/videos, exploring websites, and responding to discussion prompts for an introductory unit and twelve location-based milestones. In addition, text and photos with general information as well as links to information and resources for each milestone can be used independently, or as introductions to or in conjunction with the readings, videos and assignments. The milestone texts are available at the end of this document. Ideally users will explore each location using Google Street View as well.
Individual units may be used independently, and instructors may select from the readings, other resources and discussion prompts as appropriate for their classrooms. Users are strongly encouraged to utilize Google Street View to enhance their learning about the human and physical geography of Taiwan.
When doing the entire program, accommodations can easily be made for those who do not wish to cycle. For example, you may choose to walk (double or triple the number of miles you walk—whatever seems right to you); swim (adjust the number of miles accordingly—choose an equivalency that makes sense to you); or do another type of activity. The point of cycling is for you to have some sense of the distance around Taiwan, but you should feel free to do what is comfortable for you if you choose not to cycle.
Participants enrolled in the seminar will receive access to My Virtual Mission, all milestone emails, required books, and supplementary materials on Moodle. Those who complete the seminar will receive a certificate of completion for 40 contact hours and a $150 completion stipend.
Registration for the summer 2026 seminar will open in March.