Several faculty members from Penn State University are featured in an upcoming episode of the web series “HumIn Focus,” which addresses the societal value of higher education. Titled “Teaching Humanity: The Social Value of Higher Education,” this episode is scheduled to premiere at 9 p.m. on October 24 on WPSU TV and will also be accessible for online viewing.
Contributions of Higher Education
The episode focuses on key issues related to the contributions of colleges and universities to democracy, the importance of humanities education, and the societal significance of individual college degrees. Faculty members from diverse disciplines provided insights into how contemporary universities play a role in developing a “Knowledge Society,” which aims to disseminate information that enhances the human condition.
Relevance of the Discussion
John Christman and Matt Jordan, the executive producers of “HumIn Focus,” noted the relevance of discussing the value of higher education, particularly in light of the recent challenges these institutions have encountered.
Accessibility in Higher Education
In conjunction with the main topic, faculty members discussed the critical role of accessibility in higher education. Bradford Vivian highlighted that expanding educational access can generate substantial social and economic benefits. Michael Bérubé emphasized the transformative impact of increasing access to higher education, referencing historical milestones such as the GI Bill and the civil rights movements of mid-20th century America. Additionally, David Baker underscored the importance of education in fostering a democratic society, noting that more than 40% of youth globally are now enrolled in universities.
Importance of Humanities Education
The episode also explores the importance of humanities education within research universities. Rosemary Martinelli argued that the skills acquired through studying humanities are vital for developing ethical reasoning, leadership, and critical thinking in an increasingly interconnected world.
Viewer Engagement and Understanding
The producers hope that viewers will develop a deeper understanding of both the historical and contemporary impacts of higher education on society, as well as the challenges faced by these institutions today. Previous episodes of the “HumIn Focus” series are available for online viewing, facilitating further engagement with its themes.
(Source: Penn State University)