Educators who attended the November meeting convened by Carnegie Corporation discussed ways to rejuvenate liberal learning and make it accessible to a diverse student population. In addition to exposing undergraduate students to fields of study that rely on interdisciplinary approaches, the group recommended strengthening academic preparation in high school and integrating liberal arts faculty with faculty members of schools of education. The experts also suggested exploration of learning communities and various forms of “learning by doing” experiences such as community service, field studies, internships and research projects.

It is clear that our nation’s education system is at a crossroads. The door to higher education has been opened to more students than ever before in our history. Now we need to shape and refine the curriculum for the students who enter that doorway.

By initiating a dialogue, the Corp-oration seeks to make liberal learning a priority on the national agenda, so that we can begin the process of revitalizing undergraduate education with a focus on teaching students to develop mental adaptability and the ability to conceptualize ideas, analyze complex problems and make critical judgments. To accomplish these goals, we urgently need new set of guidelines, new paradigm, to shape the direction of education for the 21st century, to prepare students not only for the marketplace but for life, enriching their experiences, broadening their horizons and inspiring them to embrace learning as a lifelong pursuit.

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