The Fate of Liberal Arts in Today's Schools and Colleges

The current climate of political influence on education has had a devastating impact on teaching the whole child. With increased focus and accountability on utilizing student assessment results in teacher evaluation, we have created a hostile environment were only the tested contents receive attention and others are set aside. Ironically, a movement that was meant to improve the education of our young people will have a devastating and lasting impact on the future of our country. Mr. Hayes is eloquent in the manner that he presents a framework to challenge our thinking on what is truly right for our students. This book stimulates reflection and real soul searching for today’s educator. -- Casey Kosiorek, Superintendent of School , Byron-Bergen, New York
Every society needs scientists, mathematicians, nurses, and trained, skilled technicians. Yet, as Prof. Hayes reminds us in this critical analysis of liberal arts education in our schools and colleges, there is an equal need for writers, philosophers, artists, musicians. and future leaders. Hayes articulately explains the historical roots and long term implications of the increasing devaluation of a broad-based liberal arts education in our educational institutions. Policy makers, educational leaders, teachers, and truly anyone concerned about the future of liberal arts as an essential cornerstone of our democratic society would benefit greatly from Prof. Hayes' insights and admonitions. -- John J. O'Kane, Retired Pupil Personnel Services Director, Batavia City Schools
In his new book on the liberal arts, William Hayes considers the most fundamental question: What is the purpose of an education? Consensus has collapsed in recent decades as occupational training and increased specialization have gained advocates. Hayes traces the origins of the liberal arts and considers the place of arts and humanities disciplines in the modern curriculum, but this is not primarily a defense of specific disciplines. Rather Hayes explains how the current testing and assessment regimes, their impact on academic schedules, and post-recession finances have created the context in which once-indispensable subjects intended to provide students with enrichment and aesthetic and ethical understanding, as well as to prod students toward self-examination, are being squeezed out of our schools. For those concerned with the state of arts and humanities education and who continue to value the more holistic education toward which the liberal arts aspire, here is a valuable resource for use in discussions with administrators, parents, and other stakeholders. -- Stanley C. Pelkey II, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Engagement and Entrepreneurship, College of Music, Florida State University; coeditor: Music and History: Bridging the Disciplines