The Importance of Reinforcing General Education in Colleges

In today’s college landscape, there is growing concern about the diminishing content of general education or core courses. These courses are meant to provide students with a well-rounded education and essential skills for reasoned thought, compassion, and understanding. However, recent circumstances and a decline in civility have raised questions about whether students are graduating without these crucial skills. This article explores the need to reinforce the general education curriculum and the challenges in doing so. Let’s delve into why a solid core curriculum is essential for college students and how it can shape their future.

The Decline of General Education Courses

Over the years, there has been a noticeable decline in the content of general education or core courses in colleges. These courses, which are meant to provide students with a broad range of knowledge and essential skills, have become increasingly specialized and focused on specific and contemporary topics.

While it is important to stay relevant, this shift has led to concerns that students are missing out on the foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills that a well-rounded education should provide. As a result, there is a growing need to reinforce the general education curriculum and ensure that students graduate with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of the world.

The Purpose of General Education

The core curriculum in colleges is designed to provide students with a framework for reasoned thought, compassion, and understanding. It encompasses a broad spectrum of introductory courses in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences, offering students a well-rounded education.

By exposing students to a variety of disciplines, the core curriculum promotes critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the world. It equips students with essential skills that go beyond specific career paths, fostering lifelong learning and adaptability.

The Need for Reinforcement

Recent circumstances, both global and local, have highlighted the importance of reinforcing the general education curriculum. A deterioration in civility and the rise of misinformation have raised concerns about the lack of critical thinking skills among college graduates.

Additionally, there is a growing perception that some core courses have become too specialized, focusing on narrow and contemporary topics rather than providing a comprehensive understanding of the world. This has led to calls for a more defined and rigorous set of general education courses that promote reasoned thinking and shared values.

Challenges in Implementing Change

While there is a consensus on the need to strengthen the general education curriculum, implementing change can be challenging. Faculty members, who hold expertise in their respective disciplines, often resist external mandates on what should be taught in their classrooms.

However, there is an opportunity to find common ground. Many faculty members agree that the core curriculum should provide a framework for reasoned thinking and essential skills. Collaborative efforts between faculty, higher education officials, and educational organizations can lead to meaningful reform that benefits students.

An Alternative Approach

Instead of top-down mandates, some states are considering an alternative approach to reinforcing the general education curriculum. The National Association of Scholars, a nonprofit organization dedicated to upholding the standards of a liberal arts education, has developed a comprehensive general education curriculum.

This curriculum, overseen by an existing or new college of general studies, would ensure that the core courses align with the organization’s principles. It would involve reviewing and evaluating the courses taught, as well as the faculty members responsible for teaching them. This approach aims to maintain academic freedom while upholding the standards of a well-rounded education.

The Future of General Education

By reinforcing the general education curriculum, colleges can equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-changing world. A solid core curriculum can foster critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of societal issues.

Ultimately, the goal is to produce graduates who are well-rounded individuals, capable of making informed decisions and contributing positively to society. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to excellence in education, colleges can ensure that the general education curriculum remains relevant and impactful for future generations.