First-Year Seminar: Understanding Public Education

Catalog description

This course provides a comprehensive overview of public education systems, focusing on their historical development, structure, and contemporary challenges. Students will explore the philosophical foundations of public education, the role of government and policy in shaping educational practices, and the impact of socio-economic factors on educational outcomes. Through critical analysis and case studies, the course will examine issues such as equity, access, and the role of standardized testing. By the end of the course, students will have a nuanced understanding of the complexities of public education and be equipped to engage in informed discussions about its future. UNV 101 is designed to help students adjust to college academically, socially, and emotionally. It invites students to be thoughtful about their assumptions, skills, and habits, and gives them the opportunity for guided self-reflection as they discover through experience the new demands that college will make on them.