LS 2011 - Introduction to Liberal Studies: History, Purposes, and Critique of the Liberal Arts and Sciences (3)

Introduction to the history and purposes of a liberal arts education as the background to the major. Exploration of a course theme to practice and develop the major’s intellectual skills, such as critical thinking, writing, reading, and discussion, and liberal studies traits and dispositions, such as open-mindedness, multidisciplinary (across humanities, social science, and natural science disciplines) perspectives, civic-mindedness, empathy, and collaboration. The combination of these skills is the Liberal Studies Mindset students will develop in the remainder of the program. Special attention will be placed on critiquing the “traditional” structure, purposes, and outcomes of higher education and society to contemplate a more equitable and inclusive teaching and learning environment that reframes a liberal arts education for the complexity of 21st-century life.

Prerequisite(s): C or better in GE Area A2, ENG 1100, IGE 1100, or equivalent; cannot be taken concurrently with LS 3011.
Component(s): Lecture
Grading Basis: Graded Only
Repeat for Credit: May be taken only once
Course Category: Major Required Course