Liberal Learning

April 1, 2009

1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.

Liberal arts curricula offer students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the histories, cultures, economies and languages of different societies. As the 21st century unfolds, the perspectives gained from the liberal arts have become if anything, more important, as the world grows ever more interconnected and interdependent.

This preconference session will explore how college and university Professional and Continuing Education organizations are helping to prepare individuals to be effective participants in a global workforce.

Presiding: DAVID SCHEJBAL, Dean, University of Wisconsin Extension

1:30 p.m.–2:20 p.m. Global Competency’ Is Imperative for Global Success
Presenter: FERNANDO REIMERS, Professor of International Education and Director of the International Education Policy Program, Harvard Graduate School of Education

2:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. BREAK

2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m. What Constitutes the Internationalization of “The Liberal Arts”?
Presenter: KAREN ANDERSON, Dean of Continuing Education, Wesleyan University
What pedagogical approaches and curricula can we use to explore the nature and the impact of globalization? How might these learning experiences enhance students’ prospects for professional success?

2:50 p.m.-3:10 p.m. Why Global Studies Should Be Integral to a Degree Completion Program
Presenter: JOHN HILL, Associate Dean, University College, University of Denver
What is the rationale for making global studies a core course that all students must take regardless of their chosen major? What are the elements of such interdisciplinary courses? How have the global studies courses enhanced students’ prospects for professional success?

3:10 p.m.–3:25 p.m. Implications for Professional and Continuing Education
Discussion Leader: GEORGE IRVINE, Associate Dean, University of Delaware

3:30 p.m.–4:10 p.m. Global Patterns of Liberal Education
PHILIP G. ALTBACH, Director of the Center for International Higher Education, Boston College
Despite the influence of American higher education worldwide, U.S.-style higher education is not the norm globally. However, it is growing in influence. This session will explore the scope of liberal education globally and highlight some of the reasons for its growing influence internationally..

4:10 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Summary
Presenter: CARY NATHENSON, Associate Dean, Graham School, University of Chicago
Discussant: DAVID SCHEJBAL, University of Wisconsin

For more information: contact Natalia Kats, UCEA Director of Conferences, at nkats@upcea.edu or 202.659.3130.