Integration of Knowledge courses are based on the assumption that students who develop their thinking skills are on the way to becoming the educated person as defined by the faculty of Bucks County Community College. . . . By valuing the ability to analyze and make reasoned judgments, we may gain insights into ourselves and our world and a greater understanding of the interdependency of all things. . . Exploration of themes from multiple disciplines begins the process. Writing makes visible the students thinking as it develops. This visible representation of thinking provides a vehicle for analyzing an argument or for revising a position based on differing perspectives or assumptions.
Writing can take many forms.
INTG writing assignments are not limited to traditional term papers. Online discussion lists offer and alternate communication vehicle for students who are willing to share their ideas, but are reluctant to speak in a large class. Journals and reflective writing offer students opportunities to explore thinking about old concepts in new ways, while taking advantage of what they have learned from personal life experiences. With such examples in mind, meeting the requirements of a writing intensive course is easy. The challenge lies in using writing in ways that challenge students to think about themes in ways that matter to them, that help them explore and understand the theme of the course, and to provide them with tools they can apply when encountering any issue with multiple disciplinary viewpoints.