1.
Many of the physicists prefer the
pre-Rupp distribution requirements.
2.
Everyone feels writing is important
but little agreement on what kind of writing or how (or even
if) it should be required.
3.
Many felt admission should be used
to solve (or help solve) many of the educational problems.
Simply admit only people who have had calculus, science,
foreign languages, and who can write well.
4.
Some mentioned that much of
"general education" does and should take place outside of
the formal classroom. Perhaps it could be done in
conjunction with discussion of lectures, concerts, films,
art, etc.
5.
The Brown model was not considered
bad at all. There was at least one strong advocate of
extreme freedom - "choose good students and let them do what
they want." Other physicists agreed with a more moderate but
similar view.
6.
When asked what they would do or
contribute, they basically said little more than what they
are doing now.
7.
Most felt there should be
opportunities to explain ideas and methods, both in writing
and verbally. However, there was little agreement as to how
this would be done.
8.
Most felt that even with the
selective admissions, our students have a very wide range of
abilities that really complicates teaching science and
engineering.
9.
Most agreed that it is in the
applying of ideas and methods in a variety of courses and
situations that real understanding takes place. For example,
applying calculus in physics or in economics problem helps
the student understand calculus better.
All in all, the group was very negative and discouraging. There was a fair amount of griping about the humanities and humanities majors. They seemed to feel the problems are all caused by others and they are fine. Most of the engineers said nothing.