In 1983-84, the Center for the Study of Community Colleges developed and field tested an instrument, the General Academic Assessment (GAA) student survey, to assess community college students' knowledge in several liberal arts areas, including the humanities. The GAA was completed by a sample of 8,024 students at four large, urban community…

Examines the survey results that studied college students' attitudes toward choice of profession, studies, and humanities education at the Bauman State Technical University (Moscow, Russia). Determined that these students were more willing to undergo career changes and were preoccupied with how their learning will be applied. (CMK)

Believes that a humanities survey course should engage the "whole student" allowing students to draw from their entire identity that includes personal insights, experiences, and heritage. Argues that the survey course should teach students formal analysis, perceptive writing, and critical thinking skills. Describes a humanities survey that focuses…

An analysis of surveys conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics shows that the overwhelming majority of U.S. secondary schools offered one or more courses in the arts and in the humanities during the 1981-1982 school year. The arts program most commonly available was music, offered by over 90 percent of the schools; the humanities…

A course focusing on the avant-garde epoch and presenting an in-depth look at the arts of the period is described. Peer instruction, individualized instruction, experiential learning, and contracts were incorporated into a traditional lecture format. Student characteristics and attitudes were monitored. Course successes and problems are outlined.…

Analyzes information from a computerized database of Ph.D. candidates in history between 1921-90. Examines the numbers of doctoral degrees produced at each college within the university, as well as students' gender, nationality, and age. Questions previously held assumptions concerning rates of completion and submission. Includes statistical…

Dallas Baptist College (DBC) produced four videotapes for use in its freshman humanities course: The Heritage of Western Man. The videotapes were modeled on television documentaries, and included study guides with a student response and feedback mechanism. Under this system, class time can be devoted to discussion and analysis. Media cannot…

Responds to Arthur Efland's analysis of the relationship between current theories of teaching and learning and preservice art teacher education. Asserts that the cultural pluralism of today's schools is a significant factor in curriculum planning for art education. Discusses three characteristics of successful art teachers. (CFR)