Annette Taylor wrote:
> If, as I read your summary of the 'no' category, the pervasive
> tone was one of learning irrelevant information, why don't these
> students go to a trade/technical training school? Sounds like
> what they want. Not a general liberal arts education offered by
> the BA/BS degree.
>
> Have you used that notion in advising?
Actually, after the third test in my intro-psych class (which is on
learning--perhaps the toughest one for most students), I suggest to them
(in as positive a way as I can) that, if they do not wish to be in
school right now, perhaps it is best for them to take some time off. I
mention that many students I have known have left school and then come
back at some later time, and that they often do much better because they
now WANT to learn. I also agree with you that social forces probably
lead students to believe that they either get a 4-year degree or work at
McDonald's the rest of their lives. Many teachers also seem to believe
this. There are many other options, I believe, to getting a 4-year
degree, especially when one really does not want to take college
courses.
But I have to get to class,
Jeff
--
Jeffry P. Ricker, Ph.D. Office Phone: (480) 423-6213
9000 E. Chaparral Rd. FAX Number: (480) 423-6298
Psychology Department [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Scottsdale Community College
Scottsdale, AZ 85256-2626
"The truth is rare and never simple."
Oscar Wilde
"Science must begin with myths and with the criticism of myths"
Karl Popper
"If you want to learn new things, you should try reading old books."
Richard Cytowic
