Amanda Jones

ODB – Liberal Arts

-Everyone agrees on the benefits of liberal arts education

-builds character

-well rounded

-freeing from “narrowness of mind” (Bump)

I. What defines a “liberal arts” curriculum?

a. Broad range of subjects (freedom from a narrow scope of classes)

i. Variety broadens your horizons

ii. Classes you don’t want to take you persevere through à builds character

b. How classes are taught

i. Are you being “taught to think” in all classes?

ii. Discussion oriented

iii. Discovery learning

c. Which one defines Plan II?

i. Combines both broad subject base with intimate classes

II. Can a non-liberal arts class still be “liberal”?

a. Yes argument

i. Classes can encourage thinking for yourself, a love of learning

ii. Not just about the subject, but how the teacher teaches it, as well

iii. Then is it possible to have a specialized major and still get a “liberal education” / build character?

b. No argument

i. Some classes are just memorizing

ii. You still need a variety to gain new perspectives