This case study tracks the application of project-based learning (PBL) during four separate college terms at Portland Community College in Portland, Oregon. Each term follows a different learning community of first-term college students enrolled in a program of developmental education (DE), reading, writing, math, and college survival and success…

Within the context of the developments in mathematics and computer science, this paper argues that the emergence of the microcomputer gives mathematics the opportunity to survive as a viable and healthy discipline. Section I traces the development of the computer and the position of established mathematics on the sidelines of this development.…

The purpose of this project was to develop and disseminate interdisciplinary instructional materials that focus on human beings and their impact on nine environmentally important areas within the continental United States. Drafts of the instructional modules and mini-modules were prepared by interdisciplinary teams participating in two summer…

Describes an interdisciplinary humanities curriculum developed by a consortium of three community colleges. The curriculum consists of a general core course based on the classical humanistic studies of history, philosophy, and the fine arts and three "optional" courses designed to appeal to special interest students. (DC)

Established in 1966, in an era of educational creativity, Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) has consistently fostered innovation in instruction and programming and a student-centered approach to education. In 1976, in recognition of a need for change fostered by a switch in academic calendars, loss of vetarans enrollment, reduced state funding,…

At Los Medanos College (LMC), a project was undertaken in 1978 to develop an inter- and intradisciplinary general education program that would: (1) develop among students an awareness of major social issues of the late 20th Century; (2) help them analyze social problems and inquire into the options for resolving them; (3) broaden their world view…

Non-traditional courses recommended for the general education package at Los Medanos College are described. It is suggested that the core curriculum be six intra-disciplinary packages covering Behavioral Sciences, Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, Language Arts, and Humanistic Studies. Each semester, students would be…

Report on the advantages and disadvantages of the interdisciplinary cluster system at Oakton Community College (Illinois) after five years. Reviews effects on students, faculty, administrators, and curriculum. (RT)

Notes the decline of humanities curricula due to the association of humanities instruction with transfer education. Outlines five corrective measures related to the utilization of interdisciplinary courses, increased liaison between humanities and community services staff, utilization of nontraditional instructional techniques, and the development…

In 1996, Illinois' Danville Area Community College (DACC) participated in the American Association of Community Colleges Exploring America's Communities project, which works to strengthen the instruction of American history, literature, and culture at U.S. community colleges. DACC's action plan involved students in collecting materials from…

This paper traces the development of disciplinarity in higher education, examines the arguments for and against interdisciplinarity, and identifies major issues in the development of interdisciplinary programs in general, particularly at community colleges. The following subjects are explored in detail: (1) relevant terminology, including…

The project described in this report focused on the development of an interdisciplinary course incorporating physics and literature at Shoreline Community College. Part 1 provides an overview of the project and summarizes major questions and problems confronted in the process of curriculum development, including the relationship between science…

The Mexican-American Studies Curriculum at San Jose City College (California) was analyzed in order to determine appropriate means and purposes for implementing an interdisciplinary multicultural studies program for neighboring Evergreen Valley College. Results indicated that ethnic peoples face cultural conflict and isolation in contemporary…

This bulletin highlights the efforts of the St. Louis Community College District to revitalize the liberal arts on its campuses. First, the structures and activities that were used to develop a liberal arts curriculum are described, including: (1) the formation of districtwide and campus Liberal Arts Committees; (2) the development of project…

The findings of a survey conducted to gather information about the state of film study at two-year colleges in the United States are reported in this paper. The responses of 51 schools are reported in the following areas: (1) curriculum areas represented by the respondent; (2) titles of courses; (3) institutional enrollment; (4) class enrollment,…