9 Context Matters
Module: Context Matters
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you will:
- Know the history of Lehman College
- Understand what a liberal arts education is
- Identify potential degrees you could earn here at Lehman College
- Consider your new identity and role as a student and how you will adapt to this
This is all about Lehman and college. It includes maps and lists of resources.
If you want to take your students on a tour, send them on a scavenger hunt or head to the art gallery, this is the perfect time.
Recommended reading time 15-20 minutes
Chapter overview
We are all used to context being important when it comes to subject matter and content. For students, though, contextual detail is very important when adjusting to college. Without the proper contextual detail, students are likely to continue the patterns they used in high school. It makes sense- without someone telling them what the rules, procedures, expectations, and environment are, why would a student know how to navigate a new environment?
This chapter was written to help students understand that college is different than high school and the structure of the college they have joined. The chapter begins by asking them to think about their own learning origin story and then asks them what they know about their college and its history. Most students know very little about both- and this is a chance for you to introduce Lehman in your classroom (as the book chapter is not Lehman specific). The chapter then discusses types of colleges, the purpose of college, the idea of general education core and majors, types of faculty (and why they may not find faculty on campus all the time), and then programs and departments they may interact with.
This is a short chapter and is meant to work as an opening for you to help them understand Lehman.
Linked Lesson/Activity:
Have students complete part of the College Success Canvas, specifically related to their schedule and faculty contact info and office hours
Student learning outcomes
By the end of this chapter, you will:
- Learn key terms related to college
- Consider the goal of college, types of college, and who your faculty are
- Identify departments and programs on campus that you might interact with
Questions to use for discussions, assignments, and reflections
How do you see yourself as a student?
What has your experience been in school?
How do you feel about yourself as a learner? As a student? As an adult responsible for thier work and learning?
Why did you choose to come to college?
Why did you choose Lehman College?
What is your hope for your future?
What departments or programs have you already interacted with? When do you recommend others reach out to these areas?
Possible assignments and activities
- Have students look online and discover the history of CUNY and Lehman College in particular
- Send students on a scavenger hunt to view art on campus
- Visit a campus landmark together
- Have students create a Lehman walking map using an online map and draw their own paths that help them get to class efficiently
- Ask students to find places on campus to relax, study, eat, and socialize
- Challenge students to create questions for a Lehman quiz game show and then add them to a site like Kahoot, Gimkit, or Blooklet
Notes
This chapter should be completed in the first week of college, as part of your Welcome to Lehman activities. You might have students read this on their own and do work in class, or you might cover these ideas in class.