Why General Education Requirements in College Matter |
Just the thought of general education requirements often conjures up dread. Many students see it as an obstacle course with numerous hurdles preventing them from what they most want to pursue. Claiming it's not why they're in college, students regard these requirements as a waste of time and money. Parents, too, are often on a mission looking for cheaper alternatives for their college kids to "knock these out," reinforcing the idea that they're nothing more than expensive, irritating roadblocks.
Among faculty who believe in the value of these requirements, there's the understanding that teaching general education courses is challenging. This is coupled with the knowledge that some colleagues, particularly in vocationally-oriented disciplines, may show impatience toward these.
Let's examine some ways in which faculty and administrators can better support students' understanding of the meaning and purpose of these requirements.
Helping students shift their mindset about general education often begins with changing the conversation. When faculty and administrators use consistent, intentional messaging across campus, they can highlight the deeper value of general education and its essential role in students' success.
"General education is one of the hallmarks of the American education system," said Maria Paino, associate professor of sociology and co-chair of the General Education Reform Committee at Oakland University. "General education courses are useful for all majors across the university, providing students with critical skills that are necessary in their careers and lives. General education courses often focus on skills like critical thinking, social awareness,........