SAGE Journal Articles

Journal Article 1: Clemmitt, M. (2013, December). Humanities education. CQ Researcher, 23, 1029–1052.

PDF iconhumanities_education_Chernotsky3e_CH12.pdf

Abstract: This article focuses on the state of humanities education in American universities and colleges today. It begins with an overview of the arguments for and against humanities education, as well as current funding levels for humanities programs, outlooks for graduates in humanities and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, and the policy environment surrounding humanities education. Next, this article discusses in more detail key questions, including if humanities degrees are worth their cost and effort, whether or not all students should be required to take certain humanities courses, and whether or not humanities majors should receive less tuition support than students earning career-focused degrees. It provides a historical account of the development of humanities education as stemming from the ancient Greeks and influenced by the rise of technology and business, as well as cultural shifts and changes in curricula. Lastly, this article examines current situations, such as the stance of the US congress on raising tuition and ways to hold humanities education programs accountable.

  1. According to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, what are ten ways we can build support for the humanities?
  2. What are some transferable skills that you may develop by pursuing an education in the humanities?
  3. What are some of the arguments for and against required courses? Where do you stand on this issue?
  4. What is the purpose of tuition rate hikes for humanities majors? Do experts think they would be successful? Why or why not?
  5. What are some of the main reasons students go to college, according to a recent survey conducted by the University of California-Los Angeles Higher Education Research Institute? What might this mean for enrollment in humanities programs of study?

Learning Objectives: To understand the state of humanities education in the United States today and to understand some of the policies and current debates ongoing concerning humanities education.