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What Does A Liberal Education Mean?

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What Does a Liberal Education Mean?
There are many differing opinions regarding the definition and value of a liberal education. Cronon (1998) refutes the notion that a liberal education “indoctrinates students in the values of political liberalism.” Olsen (2012) on the other hand, agrees with Rick Santorum’s opinion of colleges enforcing what he calls a “politically correct left doctrine”. Delbanco (2012) also disagrees with the indoctrination concept arguing that all institutions “have a responsibility to help students discover themselves” and become “good citizens”, by learning to speak with civility, listen with respect, communicate appropriately and consider different perspectives.
My first thought about liberal education is that it is learning a little bit about a variety of things in an effort to garner a wide understanding of topics, which can then be applied across all aspects of my personal and professional life. Some of the classes may not be what I would choose for myself but are required components of my chosen field of study. When I first enrolled in college, I considered liberal education to be synonymous with liberal arts. After completing the required coursework for my Associate’s degree, I started to …show more content…
When it comes to finding a job, the skills and experience a liberal education offers make students well-rounded candidates. A 2010 survey demonstrates more employers want colleges to emphasize essential learning outcomes to help students become more engaged and informed citizens. At the same time, the LEAP initiative reports an increased demand for highly educated college graduates with “strong intellectual and practical skills to successfully navigate more demanding

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