Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences. Dr. Shelley Budgeon Deputy Dean, LANS University of Birmingham

Transcription

1 Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences Dr. Shelley Budgeon Deputy Dean, LANS University of Birmingham

2 Workshop aims What is a liberal arts degree? How does a liberal arts degree compare with a single honours degree? What skills and knowledge will students acquire by studying liberal arts? Who would benefit from this type of degree? Example University of Birmingham

3 What is a liberal arts degree? One of the oldest subjects in the world Ancient Greece (trivium and quadrivium) Developing a world wide presence Offers a broad general knowledge and develop general intellectual capacities

4 How does it compare with a single honours degree? Single honours specialised study of one subject/discipline; standardised routes Joint honours Flexibility, interdisciplinarity, openness Individualised Concentration on broad knowledge, critical and analytical thinking, problem solving

5 British Council 2015 Study Educational pathways of world leaders liberal arts degrees are not only relevant, but necessary to a thriving economy. Higher education provides more than direct learning: tangible skills and knowledge needed to advance their careers a study environment conducive to entrepreneurship and creativity exposure to different cultures networks that have continued into professional life

6 Skills and knowledge acquired Analytical, evaluative, critical and creative thinking skills Effective oral and written communication skills Problem-solving and pattern intelligence skills Ability to learn and synthesize new ideas Experience in quantitative and qualitative data analysis Critical and reflective reading skills Numerical skills Effective research skills Organization and time-management skills

7 Skills and knowledge acquired Information literacy skills Ability to adapt easily to situations Ethical decision-making skills Ability to pose meaningful questions Ability to work in a team Self-confidence and self-understanding Ability to be sensitive to others and be tolerant of cultural differences Foreign language skills and cross-cultural knowledge

8 Who would benefit from this type of degree? Maintain and develop existing interests beyond secondary education - multidisciplinary Desire to specialise and build a programme of study that allow new areas Desire flexibility and to broaden one s horizons; challenge traditional approaches Development of a broad, mixed skill set, wide range of career options in a globalised market Foundation for further study

9 Key Benefits Preparation for work in a variety of sectors Introduction to career choices Stepping stone to other careers Liberal arts degrees are appealing to employers Provides a foundation for graduate study Provides skills to become a valuable community member

10 Examples from the UK Variability in focus and structure Breadth (natural sciences) Pathways or open? (individualisation) Core versus major/options balance Study year abroad

11 University of Birmingham 6 modules per semester One core interdisciplinary module at L1 and L2 problem solving Major and minor options Access to social sciences, humanities/arts, natural sciences Natural sciences pathway Dissertation pathways Compulsory year abroad (year 3) Emphasis on personal tutoring Extracurricular programme Internships and alumni mentoring

12 A student s perspective Having studied a variety of subjects at A level, I found that the Liberal Arts and Sciences program enabled me to continue to engage in other areas of study whilst focusing on my major; namely, History. My other subjects, International Relations and Anthropology, entertain me and give variety to my week, and they also inform the work I do in my major. There are so many possible combinations of related degrees that whatever your field of interest there are other programs that interlink in a way that deepens understanding of each one. Not only do I enjoy the structure of the course but I also appreciate the other opportunities offered by it, including the chance to have a mentor from outside the University, a year abroad, support with internships and an enriching extra curricular cultural program. This course is perfect for those with a wide field of interest and a love of learning that goes beyond the classroom."

13 Questions?