The main idea in all these readings is to challenge students to develop their own critical thinking. By analyzing what has already been learned, students allow themselves a greater understanding of the world. Through education students should be encouraged not only to do the required class work, but to "read between the lines" for a deeper meaning to a particular activity or assignment. But to do this, educators must recognize the student as a valuable asset to the learning environment. By using the student's interests and experiences an educator can build an exciting and fulfilling classroom experience.
             Educators should develop an open setting where students are encouraged to question, think, look for interaction between ideas, and deal with life issues. Allowing students to determine the direction of a discussion encourages them to participate in the class. This gives the student a sense of self-involvement and responsibility for the classroom. In a more relaxed setting, students are able to combine thoughts and experiences, get new perspectives, make new friends and even have fun.
             Unfortunately, this type of teaching is not in standard practice. Many students are not included in discussions and are merely in the classroom as an observer. These students need to be encouraged to participate and told that their opinions are valuable. Past history has made it difficult for some students to
             realize this. There are many so called reasons for this thinking of inequality. Race, financial status, ethnic background, home life are a few reasons that may contribute to this inaccurate feeling of importance. Everyone has a valuable place in this society of choices and decisions.
             Before I can respond as to what I want to learn in this course, I need to know what Humanities Literature entails. As a non-traditional student my English background is limited. I never had to opportunity of the curriculum choice...