BOWLING GREEN, O. -- A record number of first-year students will participate in the BG Experience, an enriched academic opportunity that helps students successfully make the transition from high school to college. Now in its third year, the general education instruction at Bowling Green State University incorporates critical thinking about values to make learning relevant and applicable to decision-making in everyday life.

It is thought to be the only program of its kind at a public university in the United States.

Approximately 1,700 first-year students-compared to roughly 325 who took part last year--will participate in a three-day introduction to the program Aug. 19-21. During closing ceremonies on the third day, BGSU President Sidney Ribeau will conduct oral examinations of the students, a time-honored tradition in scholarly communities.

Working in groups of 25 led by a faculty member and an upper class peer mentor, first-year students will develop a basic values vocabulary, discuss a common reading experience, consider what they care about and discuss how this differs from what other students may value. This year's freshman class is likely to examine of the values held by this year's presidential candidates, noted a faculty member.

As a follow-up, participants are required to enroll in a general education course taught by their introduction group leader. The courses cover the same subject material as 'regular" sections but place a greater emphasis on learning critical thinking skills and how to apply these skills to values conflicts within the field of study.

"This is an investment by the University and by private donors in the success of first-year students and the education of good citizens," says BG Experience Director Dr. Donald Nieman, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at BGSU.

He added that next year, all first-year students at the University will take part in the BG Experience program.

(Posted August 13, 2004)