Abstract: Tensions and Models in General Education Planning

Newton, Robert R. (2000). "Tensions and Models in General Education Planning." Vol. 49, No. 3, 165-181.

Reformers of general education in institutions of higher learning seldom have enough background, understanding, and knowledge about general education to guide them toward models that will be effective for their particular needs. In general education reform there are several areas of tension; these may be related to three models of general education. The tensions concern unity versus fragmentation (knowledge); breadth versus depth (student learning); generalist versus specialist (faculty competence); and Western culture versus diversity (content). The models are Great Books, Scholarly Discipline, and Effective Citizen.