Winter Symposium 2016
Location
Portland State University
Start Date
20-1-2016 11:00 AM
End Date
20-1-2016 11:30 AM
Description
Final Summary from the table discussion on the topic of balancing academic depth and breadth.
A large part of discussion focused on how we should define breadth for our student body, the financial and societal contexts that can make breadth a difficult sell to students, and the importance of making the curriculum relevant to our students’ needs and experiences. In terms of academic content, discussion was fairly general, noting the value of balancing knowledge with skills, and providing content related to life, citizenship and career. Quite a bit of discussion explored ways to structure the curriculum and design pedagogy to meet these goals, including the importance of transparency, and the use of interdisciplinary approaches, team work and community engagement. Finally, there was much attention focused on how to address challenges posed by students’ increasing lack of college readiness and financial impediments. Many of the topics and suggestions that emerged from the discussion fall within the purview of Faculty Senate and will thus be the basis for future senate activity.
Persistent Identifier
http://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/23840
Included in
Table Discussion Final Summary - Balancing Academic Depth and Breadth
Portland State University
Final Summary from the table discussion on the topic of balancing academic depth and breadth.
A large part of discussion focused on how we should define breadth for our student body, the financial and societal contexts that can make breadth a difficult sell to students, and the importance of making the curriculum relevant to our students’ needs and experiences. In terms of academic content, discussion was fairly general, noting the value of balancing knowledge with skills, and providing content related to life, citizenship and career. Quite a bit of discussion explored ways to structure the curriculum and design pedagogy to meet these goals, including the importance of transparency, and the use of interdisciplinary approaches, team work and community engagement. Finally, there was much attention focused on how to address challenges posed by students’ increasing lack of college readiness and financial impediments. Many of the topics and suggestions that emerged from the discussion fall within the purview of Faculty Senate and will thus be the basis for future senate activity.