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  2. EDU A416

Higher Education and the Public Good
EDU A416

Course Information

Description

Since their origins, universities have been granted special privileges because they have been understood to contribute to the public good. Do these privileges incur corresponding obligations on higher education? Should they influence how higher educational institutions educate their students or create, share and preserve knowledge or conduct their internal affairs?  While higher education is expected to serve society, universities espouse values, such as academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and neutrality, that some see as antithetical to social engagement.  The image of the ivory tower, remote and removed from society, captures this vision of the university. As a result, there has been tension about how higher education can both serve society and remain true to these core values. Together we will explore how higher education's responsibility to public good has been debated and enacted in United States.

Open to cross-registration.  Students cannot take both this course and GENED 1122 for credit.

School Graduate School of Education
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Department Education
Course Component Regular Course
Instruction Mode In Person
Subject Education
Grading Basis HGSE Student Option (Letter Graded, Sat/Unsat)
Learning Goals Understanding of different normative ideas about the role of higher education in society. Understanding of debates about key values and practices in higher education. Improved ability to critically analyze higher education policies and practices. Develop sound normative judgements related to higher education policies and practices.. Improved oral and written communication skills. Improved group collaboration and problem solving skills.
Career Focus <p>Higher EducationPublic Poilicy</p>