Curriculum

The latest in a series of core academic programs first established in 1964, the Paideia curriculum consists of three required interdisciplinary courses: a common two-semester sequence for first-year students (Paideia I), and a series of one-semester courses for juniors and seniors (Paideia II, also known as Capstone).

Paideia I (Paideia 111-112; two 4-credit courses)

A two-semester common course for all first-year students, focused on one or more questions that confront us as learners and as citizens. Paideia I is committed to developing students' abilities as critical readers, writers, informed speakers, and researchers. The course draws on European, African, Asian, and American traditions so that students will encounter multiple perspective in seeking answers to the questions posed by the course. Material is drawn from ancient times through the present.

Paideia I is required of all first-year students. Students are not allowed to withdraw from Paideia 111 or 112. The course is staffed by all the members of the English and history departments, as well as by selected members of other academic departments.

The Goals for Student Academic Achievement Identified for Paideia I

Breadth of knowledge: knowledge of major intellectual, artistic, and social landmarks of human history—achievements, failures, and challenges; understanding the diversity of people and societies, both historically and cross culturally

Communication: write with fluency, clarity, and coherence; read a variety of materials for comprehension and enjoyment; speak confidently and coherently in both formal and informal settings; listen with objectivity and empathy

Paideia II (Paideia 450; one 4-credit course)

A team-taught, junior-senior course devoted to interdisciplinary study of an ethical issue that confronts us in our lives as learners and citizens. Paideia II courses pay special attention to the nature of moral decision-making and to the continued development of students' writing skills. The Paideia II requirement is completed during the junior or senior year in a course taught at Luther College or in a designated Luther-sponsored program. Juniors and seniors may also satisfy Paideia II in three alternative forms:

By co-enrolling in an interdisciplinary cluster of two paired courses carefully planned by participating faculty;
By enrolling in a carefully planned sequence of two courses taught by two different faculty members in the same academic year;
Through the completion of an interdisciplinary minor.

The Goals for Student Academic Achievement Identified for Paideia II

Breadth of knowledge: experience in using the various forms of thinking and learning characteristic of different disciplines; awareness of the intersections among disciplines—tensions and possibilities for dialogue between the sciences and humanities, religious and secular perspectives

Values: commitment to dealing reflectively and in community with ethical challenges confronting human beings in the world; commitment to gaining a better understanding of the Christian faith and tradition together with an awareness of other religious faiths and traditions; commitment to a life of work that will provide success and fulfillment, guided by a sense of vocation