A working definition of the humanities and characteristics of a liberally educated person are specified. The humanities embrace areas of human knowledge that possess these elements: central concern for human beings rather than for the processes of nature or the structures of society; primary focus on the individual rather than on the group;…

This paper suggests appropriate material for a general humanities course founded on the classics and discusses the proper way of presenting it. The document also gives examples of such a course, which have been used successfully over a number of years. The ultimate purpose, of those who teach the humanities is brought out, i.e., to shape minds and…

When the introductory philosophy course evokes cognitive dissonance over philsophical problems in which students are already interested, it can help develop students' skills in reasoning and assessing arguments. This kind of course should play a key role in the undergraduate curriculum. (MSE)

It is the responsibility of higher education to help individuals develop skills and powers of reasoning so that culture can be understood and preserved. There are two aspects of reason, the reason of Plato that seeks a complete understanding and the reason of Ulysses that seeks an immediate method of action. Because of the demand for technocrats,…

This handbook for educators and parents discusses the need to include philosophy in the elementary classroom. The authors point out that as a question-raising discipline, philosophy is appropriate to guide children's natural inquisitiveness through the educational process. It encourages intellectual resourcefulness and flexibility which can enable…

Contends that an integrated curriculum approach increases student motivation and makes learning easier because lessons have wider applications. Suggests that discipline-based art education promotes an interdisciplinary approach, particularly with social studies and language arts. Provides an example of an instructional unit combining social…

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)

Growing interest in teaching philosophy in elementary and secondary school prompted a 1975 national survey to determine the present status of philosophy as a component in the curriculum. Possible contributions of philosophy to students' personal growth and critical thinking skills are explored. The first section of the paper presents the following…