Restructuring General Education: An Examination of Assumptions, Practices, and Prospects. CUE Project Occasional Paper Series No. 2.

Overview & Synopsis

The gap between the claims and the execution of general education is explored in this contemplative report, which challenges not only traditional assumptions of general education but those governing its newest and most innovative practices. Interpretations of the meaning of general education over the centuries are traced, including problems of the 1970's. Focus is on two factors: (1) the economic and social considerations that work against notions of general learning, including the diversification of students and the emerging role of higher education in job preparation, and (2) the vague language of the liberal arts and general education, which lends itself to numerous interpretations of the goals of general education. Further consideration is given to traditions of the generally educated person, student development and general education, general education and societal survival. (LBH)