What is the Great Books Program?
In classes designated as Great Books sections, at least half
of the
primary source reading will be written by authors who are recognized as primary voices in their fields by the Encyclopedia Britannica Great Books series (1990 edition). So that rather than reading only what your psychology text book says about Freud, for instance, you’ll read some of Freud’s own work. In addition, Great Books sections will consider a common theme, such as the Phi Theta Kappa theme, “The Paradox of Affluence,” so as to emphasize connections and conversations among all liberal arts and sciences courses. If you get a B or better in four Great Books sections, you will receive a Great Books Achievement Certificate.
Are Great Books sections harder than other sections?
No. In many Great Books classes of Literature, Humanities, and Philosophy, for instance, the readings are exactly the same as in other sections. In others, such as history and biology, the readings may be more challenging, or just different, than in other sections. In any case, your Great Books professor is trained to help you in understanding the readings.
How do I know it’s a Great Books section?
Great Books courses have the words “This is a Great Books section” printed in the section notes. Great Books sections sometimes change, so be sure to check the electronic catalog by clicking on the section’s CRN. There are also lists of Great Books sections posted around the college.
Why Should I take Great Books classes?
A Great Books Achievement Certificate will be recognized by the admissions committees of colleges you may want to transfer to. Like any other academic honor, it will allow you to be seen as a serious student with high academic standards and achievements. In addition, research has shown that students who complete at least two Great Books classes score much higher than expected on reading comprehension tests. Improved reading skills can improve your work in your other classes.
Great Books Faculty listed at this link.
For additional information please contact
Professor Lucy L. Y. Graca 303.797.5811
lucy.graca@arapahoe.edu
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