|
Some
departments unsure where they fit into CUE curriculum Although the
current CUE proposal seeks to supply broad knowledge of liberal
arts, some departments have yet to find where they would fit in
the proposed curriculum, said one member of the Common Undergraduate
Experience drafting committee. Richard Allen, a drafting committee member and an associate professor of radio-TV-film, said because of the conflicts concerning the proposal more work will be needed. “Part of the problem is that a small drafting committee can lose sight (of) how someone else might look at it,” Allen said. “Basically, our intent was to have departments take the initiative and create courses for a potential fit.” Despite the committee’s intentions, members of some departments still say they have their reservations. Ronald Watson, chairman of the art department, said he’s concerned about how students will satisfy the CUE’s requirements, particularly the objective that states a student should demonstrate ability in an art form and have a general understanding of arts and culture, he said. “(The CUE) needs to be more precise on what will count and what a student will need to master,” Watson said. “The CUE is intriguing because of the possibilities, but it also gives me the daunting task in order to advise people on how to obtain these objectives,” Watson said. All art courses that will count toward CUE requirements would be re-worked in order to produce the desired outcome for the student, he said. Carol Thompson, chairwoman of sociology and criminal justice, said she realizes it’s very difficult to get every department’s opinion, but that it is in everyone’s best interest to get involved. “We’re very critical of the CUE and we’re very supportive. The proposal had shortfalls and it had strengths,” Thompson said. “We just want the best possible core.” Although she said the sociology and criminal justice departments are still uncertain of what the CUE specifically entails, she said she’s confident her department will make substantial contributions. “Nobody really has a clue,” Thompson. “We’re just waiting and seeing what will come of further discussion. Nutrition and dietetics is also waiting to see how they fit into the proposed CUE, as physical education isn’t currently included, said Ann VanBeber, chairwoman of the department. “We have given our opinion that physical education and health courses should be part of the curriculum,” VanBeber said. “Right now, the science requirements are not clear.” Allen said conflicts with clarity were expected and are a sign there needs to be more widespread planning done. Colleen
Casey |
|
|
TCU Daily Skiff © 2002 |
||
