Course Objectives

Students will have the opportunity to develop or refine skills in critical inquiry, communication, cultural knowledge, and self- reflection that are traditionally associated with the life of the mind -- and with the humanities and American Studies in particular. But, once acquired, these skills know no boundaries; they will be of tremendous service in a professional career, a business setting, within the family circle, and in activities pursued for personal enrichment. There are six objectives for the course:

* To introduce material culture studies as a mode of inquiry that combines artifactual and documentary research by teaching students a technique for "doing" material culture studies.
* To introduce American Studies as a mode of inquiry that cultivates the "connecting frame of mind."
* To foster knowledge about American society and culture and the values and beliefs that have given meaning and shape to the experiences of its peoples.
* To develop skills in analysis, synthesis, and the construction of an argument, particularly as applied to the close study of American artifacts.
* To familiarize students with the capabilities of new information technologies for the purposes of instruction as well as research.
* To develop and refine skills in research and in written and oral communication.