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Uncertainty in Higher Education After U.S. Election: Impact on Policies and Curriculum

A month after Donald Trump’s election as president, discussions have emerged within the Middlebury community regarding the potential implications of his administration on higher education. Concerns among faculty members center on critical academic areas, including environmental studies, race and gender studies, and international relations.

Key Issues in Higher Education

Key issues arise from Trump’s stance on education, notably his rhetoric surrounding the potential restriction of discussions on race and gender in K-12 education settings. Laurie Essig, a Professor of Gender, Sexuality and Feminist Studies, raised concerns about the broader implications of a nationwide ban on gender studies. She noted that certain academic institutions are preparing for challenges against the administration’s initiatives to limit discourse on gender and race theory within educational contexts.

Concerns Over Authoritarian Trends

Essig articulated the seriousness of such actions, arguing that political regimes that seek to ban specific forms of knowledge and expression indicate a troubling authoritarian trend, which extends beyond the field of gender studies.

Potential Impact on Curriculum

In analyzing the impact of national political changes, Sarah Stroup, a Professor of Political Science and Director of the Kathryn Wasserman Davis Collaborative in Conflict Transformation, indicated that significant shifts in curriculum at Middlebury might be unlikely. As a private institution located in a predominantly Democratic state, it may be somewhat insulated from the extreme effects of Trump’s policies. However, Stroup acknowledged that her research in humanitarian relief and human rights could be influenced by Trump’s policies, given the dynamics observed during his previous term.

Previous Term Policies and Future Impacts

During Trump’s first term, there were considerable reductions in funding for UN aid agencies and the introduction of a ‘global gag rule’ that limited financial support for organizations providing reproductive health services. Such policies could potentially impact U.S. support for initiatives concerning Palestinians in the future.

Threats to the U.S. Department of Education

Additionally, concerns have been raised about Trump’s threats to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, which he claims promotes inappropriate racial, sexual, and political content for youth audiences. Jonathan Miller-Lane, an Associate Professor of Education Studies, commented that while the complete elimination of the department is improbable, significant job losses would likely hinder data collection and oversight related to compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws in education.

The Role of Education in Cultural Transmission

Miller-Lane emphasized the critical role of education in cultural transmission, suggesting that it represents a point of political struggle. He expressed hope that Middlebury would cultivate a collaborative environment that encourages diverse and inclusive dialogue, rather than fostering divisions.

Environmental Policy Concerns

In terms of environmental policy, concerns arise regarding Trump’s intentions to reverse existing regulations and repeal the Inflation Reduction Act. Chris Klyza, a Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies, noted the possibility of substantial agency budget cuts but suggested that major legislative changes could be limited by Congressional dynamics.

Constructive Discourse in Higher Education

As the higher education sector navigates the shifting political landscape, Miller-Lane underscored the significance of utilizing academic institutions as venues for constructive discourse and collaboration aimed at advancing progressive educational objectives.

Original article source: The Middlebury Campus

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