Freshman General Education

A critical, comparative, cross-cultural analysis of different ways of knowing. Begins by analyzing different ways humans have sought to know the truth, and by comparing and contrasting formal, universal ways of knowing with practical, experience based, problem oriented ways of knowing. The resulting understanding of knowledge provides the foundation to explore: 1) the relationship between morality and knowledge; 2) aesthetics and knowledge; and 3) a comparative analysis of knowledge and information. Reading and writing intensive.

A study of the concepts and representations of nature in Eastern and Western cultures. Several art forms (literature, performing, or visual arts) will be studied from their beginnings to the present time. Students will create their own versions of several of these arts, such as poems, short plays, drawings, or stories. Emphasis falls on the appreciation of each art and its cultural context, with some comparison of the traditions of East and West. Specific topics may vary.

Scientific and technological changes occur in the context of a full psycho-social, political, cultural and physical environment. Focusing on specific topics, such as health and illness, food, transportation, or information, etc. Students analyze specific scientific and technological changes in those contexts. Examines some of the major changes that transpired over the course of time for health and illness practices. Students will have the opportunity to study the technological developments in the Western and Non western worlds as well as the effects those developments have had on the nature of research and on the well-being of the individual.

Special topics of interest and relevance are explored and used as a medium to introduce first-year students to a variety of academic perspectives and methods. This course will provide first-years with the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the tools of the academic setting (e.g., library and information skills), appreciate how various disciplines contribute to an understanding of a topic area, and build a sense of community through a shared learning experience.