研究生多维教程UnitOneBookTwo.pptVIP

Unit One From Competence to Commitment Background Information I. Introduction to the Author Ernest Boyer (1925-1995) had a remarkable career that spanned four decades as one of the most articulate and well-reasoned voices in the history of American education. As President of the Carnegie Foundation of for the Advancement of Teaching, United States Commissioner of Education, Dr. Boyer’s profound influence shaped and reformed national and international understanding of education. Introduction to the Text II. What is the purpose of undergraduate education? Is it to prepare students for a career, or something more? In this essay, Ernest Boyer argues that it is not enough to merely teach undergraduates the specialized skills needed to do a particular job; rather, students need “ a large vision” . He argues that they need to become familiar with issues far beyond the simple concerns of a narrow academic field, and gain an appreciation of the values and philosophy of their own culture as well as the issues shaping nations far from the university campus. According to Boyer, the United States is keenly in need of citizens who are familiar with the major problems the society faces and have the knowledge and skills needed to participate in the search for solutions. Undergraduate education should strive to produce such citizens. The subject of the essay The essay is an argument, which mainly talks about the purpose of education. The college education at its best should move the student form competence to commitment. Part 1. (1-2) Where should today’s university students put their faith in this uncertain age? Part 2.(3-14) The college graduate has civic obligations to fulfill and to fulfill this urgent obligation, the perspective needed is not only national, but global. Part 3.(15-17) Education for what purpose? Competence to what end? Part 4.(18-23) The undergraduate experience at its best will move the student from competence to commitment. But our abiding hope is with dete