Rethinking the Value of Arts and Humanities in Higher Education
As someone who recently graduated, I’ve had the chance to reflect on a noteworthy trend within academia: the undervaluation of arts and humanities disciplines. This post will delve into why many institutions—and students—are inclined to diminish the importance of these fields, particularly in comparison to more “practical” majors like engineering.
During my university years, I recall a conversation with a faculty member who mentioned that the engineering department sought to reduce the general education (gen ed) requirements for arts and humanities. Currently, students are asked to complete 9 credits from these areas, split evenly between arts and humanities. However, there was a push to lower this to just 6 credits, supposedly to relieve engineering students of additional “burden.”
It’s disheartening to think that a mere 9 credits in these vital subjects could be perceived as a hindrance. When compared to other degree programs, such as the natural sciences—which require 7 credits, including a lab component—or social sciences—which ask for 6 credits—arts and humanities already seem to be receiving less emphasis. Moreover, disciplines like mathematics only require 3 credits, which includes a logic course from the philosophy department.
The reduction of requirements for arts and humanities is concerning. These subjects play a crucial role in fostering personal development and enhancing critical thinking skills. In a democratic society, the ability to analyze, communicate effectively, and engage in thoughtful discourse is essential. Dismissing these fields because they’re perceived as less marketable compared to STEM majors does an injustice to their intrinsic value.
If I were to design an ideal set of gen ed requirements, I would propose the following:
– 6 credits in the arts (including music, theater, and visual arts)
– 6 credits in humanities
– 6 credits in social sciences
– 6 credits in history (intentionally distinct from humanities)
– 7 credits in natural sciences (with at least one lab experience)
– 6 credits in mathematics (excluding logic, which should return to the humanities)
– 6 credits in English (3 credits dedicated to writing and 3 focused on literary analysis)
In total, that would sum up to 43 credits dedicated to foundational learning, leaving ample room for students to explore their chosen majors and minors. I believe that flexibility should be allowed, where general education credits can also fulfill requirements within specific fields.
What are your thoughts on this topic?
TL;DR: There is insufficient appreciation for arts and humanities in higher education, and I propose a reevaluation of general education requirements to enhance exposure in these critical areas. The suggested structure for requirements is outlined above.
Your observations regarding the undervaluation of arts and humanities in higher education are both timely and critical, especially as we navigate a world that increasingly prioritizes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields. Let’s delve deeper into the reasons behind this trend, its implications, and how universities might better integrate the arts and humanities into their curriculums.
Why the Discounting of Arts and Humanities?
Market Demand and Employment Trends: One primary reason for the emphasis on STEM over the arts and humanities lies in the perception that STEM fields lead to more lucrative career paths. This mindset is often reinforced by labor market data that highlights job growth and salary potential in technical fields. Consequently, universities may feel pressured to direct resources towards these areas to ensure their students’ employability and institutional reputation.
Narrower Metrics of Success: Higher education institutions often gauge success through quantifiable metrics, such as graduation rates, employment statistics, and post-graduate salaries. Arts and humanities programs may struggle to demonstrate comparable outcomes, leading administrators to prioritize programs with clearer ROI (return on investment). This can result in diminished funding, fewer course offerings, and, ultimately, a reduced emphasis on these disciplines.
Cultural Attitudes: There exists a cultural bias that positions the arts and humanities as less “serious” or rigorous than STEM disciplines. This can stem from longstanding stereotypes about the capabilities of people who study these subjects. Such biases can influence not only institutional policies but also parental and societal expectations.
Fragmented Understanding of Interdisciplinarity: Many fail to recognize the intrinsic value of a well-rounded education that incorporates skills from both the arts and sciences. Critical thinking, creativity, ethical reasoning, and effective communication—often cultivated through arts and humanities courses—are vital in all fields, including STEM. However, this interdisciplinary understanding is not universally accepted, leading to an undervaluation of the contributions that the arts and humanities make to a well-rounded education.
The Importance of Arts and Humanities
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: As you pointed out, the ability to critically analyze and engage with complex ideas is essential, especially in a democratic society. The arts and humanities encourage this through diverse perspectives, historical contexts, and ethical inquiry, which are crucial in developing well-informed citizens.
Creativity and Innovation: Many breakthrough innovations in the world, including in technology and engineering, are borne out of creativity, which is nurtured in the arts. Studies show that a creative mindset can enhance problem-solving abilities and foster innovation—attributes highly sought after in any field.
Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility: Engaging with arts and humanities cultivates a sense of identity and belonging, essential for community-building and civic participation. In a world facing complex social challenges, nurturing empathetic and socially responsible individuals is vital for progress.
Practical Advice to Advocate for Arts and Humanities
Engage in Dialogue: Start conversations within your university about the value of arts and humanities. This can be through student forums, discussions with faculty, or even creating or joining clubs focused on these disciplines. Collective advocacy can amplify your message.
Interdisciplinary Courses: Promote or advocate for the development of interdisciplinary courses that blend STEM with arts and humanities. For instance, a course that examines the ethical implications of emerging technologies through literature or art can highlight the relevance of these fields in the contemporary world.
Capstone Projects or Minors: Encourage universities to incorporate capstone projects that require students to draw on arts and humanities skills, regardless of their major. This not only reinforces the importance of these areas but also integrates them into varied disciplines.
Highlight Success Stories: Share and promote success stories of individuals who have benefited from an arts and humanities education—even when they pursued careers in STEM. This can help mitigate misconceptions about employability and the value of a liberal arts education.
Curriculum Redesign: As you’ve suggested in your proposal, advocate for a comprehensive redesign of general education requirements that emphasizes a balanced exposure to the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Engage with curriculum committees and academic advisers to discuss the impacts of such a change.
Conclusion
The struggle to value the arts and humanities in higher education is a nuanced issue, influenced by economic factors, cultural perceptions, and institutional priorities. As you and others advocate for a more robust inclusion of these fields in higher education, remember that a well-rounded education—integrating arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences—will foster the kind of critical thinkers, innovators, and engaged citizens our society desperately needs.
TLDR: The undervaluation of arts and humanities in academia can be attributed to market demand, cultural attitudes, and narrow success metrics. It’s vital to recognize their contributions to critical thinking, creativity, and civic engagement. Advocacy through dialogue, promoting interdisciplinary courses, sharing success stories, and redesigning curriculums can help elevate the status of these essential disciplines.