1. What is the BGeXperience?
BGeXperience is the name for BGSU's values initiative. It is a unique program
designed to help students examine their own and others' values, understand
the role values play in decision-making, and learn to make thoughtful decisions
about value judgments they make. It also helps students build strong relationships
with faculty and other students and develop skills that will help them be successful
at BGSU and beyond. First-year students participate in the BGeX Introduction during
the move-in weekend of August 23-24, 2008. They also take a general education
course that focuses on critical thinking about values. BGeX "V" courses are offered
in a wide variety of subjects, ranging from biology to history and popular culture to
economics. Students select their BGeX course in consultation with their academic
advisor during Summer Orientation and Registration.
2. Do I have to participate in the BGeXperience program?
Yes. If you are a first-year freshman, participation in the BGeX Introduction is mandatory.
Attendance will be taken at each session. Absence may affect your BGeX course grade.
If you have concerns or questions, please contact your instructor who is listed on your
course schedule, or contact the BGeXperience office at 419-372-7247.
3. What are the benefits of participating in the BGeXperience?
First, the program offers smaller classes (of about 25 students) that provide greater
faculty-student interaction. Also, the classes involve active participation and learning.
Students will be learning to reflect critically on values and how they guide people in
making decisions. By understanding how values shape one's reasoning, a student
benefits because she or he can make more informed decisions.
4. What are the requirements for participating in the BGeXperience program?
There are two primary requirements for participating in the program. First, students are
required to enroll in a general education course ("V" course). Students can only register
for one "V" course, which will be selected after consultation with their advisor during
Summer Orientation and Registration. Second, students will attend and actively participate
in the BGeX introduction (August 23-24, 2008).
5. What do we do during the Introduction?
During the BGeX introduction, you will have the opportunity to build relationships with the
other students in your class and begin to talk about what "critical thinking about values"
means. The Introduction also gives you an opportunity to connect with an upper class
student who will help you make the transition during your first few days of college. The
Introduction is designed to convey expectations of your membership in the BGSU learning
community, create a sense of community among all participants, introduce you to basic
values vocabulary, and help you understand the role of values in decision-making.
6. May I join the Honors Program or a Residential Learning Community?
We encourage you to do so! BGeXperience is for all first-year students, including those
who join the University Honors Program or choose to live in a Residential Learning
Community. The program complements BGSU's outstanding first-year programs,
and is designed to help students from a wide range of backgrounds and diverse needs
succeed.
7. Is this a four-year program?
Yes. However, students are only required to participate in the BGeX Introduction and the
semester-long course during the first semester. We hope students will want to participate
in further BGeXperience courses, which are offered beginning in the Fall 2008 by various
colleges and departments.
8. What is the difference between a BGeXperience class and a regular class?
A BGeXperience class will cover the same subject material as a "regular" section, but
with more of an emphasis on learning critical thinking skills and learning how to apply these
skills to value conflicts within the field.
9. Is this class going to determine my major?
No. This class will fulfill a general education requirement for graduation, but will not in
any way determine your major. You will select your BGeX course in consultation with your
advisor to assure that you have a course that meets your academic needs and interests.
10. Where would I live if I were involved in the program?
If you are participating in a Residential Learning Community, you will stay in that
designated residence hall. If you are not a part of a Learning Community, you will live
in your assigned residence hall.
11. If I am a commuter student, do I participate?
As a first-year commuter student, you will participate like every other first-year student.
In fact, the BGeX introduction is especially important to help connect you with the BGSU
community.
12. Will I be receiving information about BGeXperience Introduction this summer?
Yes. You will be receiving information regarding early move-in and the introduction schedule.
Please check your BGSU email account and your MYBGSU account during the summer for
updates. This is the most effective way for us to communicate this important information to you.
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