The Path to Equity: Inclusion in the Kingdom of Liberal Arts

Coplin has been fighting against the bait-and-switch business model of liberal arts programs for fifty years, which he believes is harmful to undergraduates who value career preparation over love of learning. He argues that the Kingdom of Liberal Arts programs are based on an elitist attitude that leads to increased anxiety and a lower college completion rate. He suggests three structural changes to transform the Kingdom to an institution that serves its undergraduates and contributes to equity and inclusion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 08 August 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Coplin has dedicated fifty years to safeguarding students from the detrimental effects of the liberal arts programs' bait-and-switch business model. The bait promises career preparation, while the switch aims to educate undergraduates as scholars. Through his compelling arguments, Coplin exposes the elitist nature of these programs, which ultimately harm most students who prioritize career readiness over a genuine love for learning. This elitism fosters heightened anxiety among college students and results in a college completion rate lower than that of the worst high schools in the United States. Coplin further reveals that this elitism perpetuates inequality and exclusion, contradicting its purported goals. The harm extends beyond undergraduate education to various socio-economic conditions in American society. The Kingdom has played a role in perpetuating a K-12 education system that sends an overwhelming number of students to college, depleting the resources necessary for careers without a college education. It shares some responsibility for the lack of skilled and semi-skilled labor in the country.

However, Coplin offers a glimmer of hope by highlighting some progress in transforming the Kingdom into an institution that genuinely serves its undergraduates. He suggests three critical structural changes that can accelerate the pace of change and contribute to, rather than hinder, equity and inclusion. These reforms include increasing financial aid, promoting diversity and inclusion, and enhancing the quality of teaching.

In conclusion, Coplin's unwavering dedication to exposing the flaws of the liberal arts programs and advocating for transformative change is a testament to his commitment to the well-being and success of students. While much work remains to be done, his proposals offer a roadmap for a more equitable and inclusive higher education system. It is up to educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to embrace these changes and work towards a future where all students can thrive and achieve their aspirations.

Weight: 245g
Dimension: 228 x 152 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781475871333