“Be able to assemble or perform work that demonstrates standards of craftsmanship in the discipline. Accordingly, they will learn methods of writing, discussion, and critique of creative works of art or music”. This excerpt from the learning outcomes really sums up one of Boyer’s main goals and attributes of the enriched major. Many elements of the enriched major lie within this text, for example, Boyer’s need for a balance of vocational learning and critical thinking within a topic. This is shown through the learning objective above because it states that Art & Design majors will not only learn craftsmanship and assembly (vocational) but also learn skills regarding communication, discussion, etc. These important aspects make the major more organized and cohesive for students to understand.
One class that may seem unimportant to the Art & Design major due to its lecture-like style would be Art in the Modern World, an art history class. However, while many students aren’t interested in a lecture when signing up for a mainly hands-on major, it’s paramount in their success and broad skillset outside of college. Boyer notes: “Scholars are busy sorting, counting, and decoding. We are turning out technicians. But the crisis of our time relates not to technical competence, but to a loss of social and historical perspective…”. This quote by Boyer truly encapsulates the meaning and weight behind having to take these classes. Classes like this one that is a deep dive into the tradition and culture of the 20th century truly help students develop a well-rounded career. Skills like the ones that are learned in this class such as cultural and art analysis, writing, and communication skills are just as important as the hands-on learning that fuels the Art & Design media major at UNE.
