12A

Why Liberal Arts?

A Liberal Arts Education sets up a foundation for most of the majors and include various schools of interest.  These classes allow the student to study a variety of subjects so that they are knowledgeable in a variety of subject content.  It prepares the college or university student for a more rigorous study in their major subject.  The courses allow a student to think and write effectively.  These classes teach a student to think critically and to form an opinion.   They teach a student how to evaluate an argument and to think rationally.  Students can learn to appreciate beauty and other forms of artistic expression.  Liberal Arts has roots at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, where colonial clergymen established a college to preserve the tradition of European liberal education in the New World.  In politics, liberal means open, free and progressive.  

Southern Connecticut State University began as one of the Teacher’s Colleges of Connecticut.  I am self-reflecting how I am doing in my classes and made my schedule for next semester by having a solid, broad base by taking different classes that I would not normally choose.  They open up the student to new experiences and thought processes.  A liberal arts class can broaden the student’s knowledge in a subject and possibly even create a new avenue for them on their path to getting a degree.  There are many pros and cons of taking new classes.  A negative would be a lack of interest in the course so one may not do as well.  A positive would be that Southern wants students to explore different majors and have a wide range of knowledge that allows for both personal and academic growth.

“Which is why the goal of education today, argues Wagner, should not be to make every child “college ready” but “innovation ready” — ready to add value to whatever they do.”  (Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/31/opinion/sunday/friedman-need-a-job-invent-it.html?_r=2&)  After a student graduates, it is important to have the basic knowledge, but more than that, Wagner feels that the student must be motivated.  They must also be curious and persistent and create opportunities for themselves.  This is a difficult task for many students because many students want to obtain a college degree, but do not have motivation.  According to Wagner, if one has the motivation and the basics, they will then have success.  But he also feels this will only happen if we make changes to our educational system.