GEN - General Interdisciplinary Skills
The GEN category reflects the realization that the frontiers of education are constantly expanding to include new kinds of knowledge, that the process of knowing and communicating knowledge is of itself worthy of study, and that affective learning has a legitimate place beside cognitive learning in any well balanced curriculum. Such perspectives are an essential part of general education, and demonstrate the changing nature of knowledge.
Types of Courses
Modes and Methods
GEN courses may focus on the modes and methods of learning, thinking, and knowing
or on the acquisition of certain intellectual skills common to much of learning and
knowing. They may also provide advanced or intermediate instruction in various communication
skills which will help students better organize their knowledge and present it to
others.
Behavior and Experiences
GEN courses may focus upon the students’ personal behavior or experience in an attempt
to heighten awareness, consciousness, creativity, and intuition. Such courses may
supplement the more analytical, linear, and intellectual approaches to learning.
Themes and Topics
GEN courses may explore general themes and topics of current interest that exist outside
the established disciplinary or “G” categories, and thus further demonstrate the dynamic
nature of knowledge. These might include courses in new or emergent disciplines,
interdisciplinary yet introductory courses, and courses in non-traditional academic
areas.
Innovative Approaches
GEN courses may focus upon innovative approaches to the process of intellectual exploration.
