12B More College Questions and Answers

                This week’s readings focused on the importance of a Liberal Arts Education, which is the type of education that Southern Connecticut State University prides itself on. These last couple of readings also brought up some interesting questions such as do you think it is important for a child to be “innovation ready” rather than “college ready” why or why not? Do you feel that a liberal arts education is important or would you prefer focusing on one subject area? Why? And lastly, what is the pass/fail system that was implemented at Swarthmore? And what benefits come out of using that system?   

                The question that I chose to give more thought to was the last one, what is the pass/fail system? And what benefits come from it? The pass/fail system that is available at Swarthmore is something that all students in their first semester have to do and it is designed so students can take classes that they otherwise wouldn’t take if they are focused on their major; a student can neither get an A or D in a class under this system. In the article, Two Views on Liberal Arts, it says “an aspiring doctor can take an art class without fear of bringing down his grade point average”.  I think this type of system is something that all colleges should consider trying because it has many benefits that can come out of it. The pass/fail method allows students to take classes that seem interesting to them, which not only helps them to become a better-rounded person, but also helps them to realize if they are on the right path or not before they are too far into their area of concentration. The pass/fail technique creates a safe environment for students to explore other options without having to worry about it counting against them, and if they find an area that they enjoyed than they are able to continue on with it more in the future.