The sessions were audiotaped and transcribed to written narratives. Through an inductive approach, the transcripts were reviewed and analyzed to determine recurring themes. Four major categories were determined from this review of responses. 2. influence of general education program on students, 3. professors and instruction in the general education program, 4. recommendations for improvements in general education . . General Views of the Program . .
Students have two general views of the program.
They see it as an opportunity to explore, to increase one's educational foundation in preparation for later course work, and to broaden their perspectives and outlook on life. Secondly, some students view the general education curriculum as unnecessary, boring, and wasteful of their time and energy. It appears that students view the class professor as the key to a successful experience. They describe the professor within the major as caring, enthusiastic, and concerned about their academic well-being. They were very critical of professors who showed disinterest and who taught only through the lecture method.