MS>     I take the position that whole separate vocational programs are 
MS> rather than one or two classes each year grafted into a standard lib
MS> curriculum.
 
Hi Matt,
 
  It is interesting, and I tend to agree that there should be solid 
vocational tracks for students to pursue but there is too the overall 
value of the liberal arts education.  Now mind you I was one of those 
in HS that couldn't see the reason behind a liberal arts education...I 
mean I was going to be an accountant, what did the classics, history, 
language, sociology etc, have to do with keeping books.  Well, I was 
young and just didn't have a whole lot of life experiences behind me to 
really put a value on those things.  It wasn't until I'd completed a 2 
yr business school and tried to secure a meaningful job that it hit me. 
Yes, many places focused on the credential of a 4 yr degree, but I had 
my present employer at the time explain it best (Coopers & Lybrand - 
Hartford CT office) One of our personnel managers explained that the 
whole process of being able to express oneself, formulate arguements, 
put things in a historical perspective, interact w/and comprehend 
others behaviors (among other things) were all valuable skills -- in 
addition to being technically proficient in a particular discipline.  I 
guess it's an ability to appreciate *more* of your surroundings and 
take an active part in it.  
 
Now I wouldn't be so bold as to assert that those that chose a 
vocational track do not appreciate their surroundings or don't take an 
active role it, or are any less a person for it -- it'd be pure hogwash 
to assume that.  Pure academic success or achievement *is not* and *can 
not* be the sole measure of an individual.  People have to find their 
niche, they have to do what "works best for them".  The person who 
pursues a vocation, excels in it, is *happy* doing what they are
doing, and contributing to the greater good is just as "rich" 
(internally) as the same individual who has reached the doctoral level 
in their chosen field, completes research, publishes, (hehehe just a 
few role expectations eh?)  is *happy* doing what they are doing, and 
contributes to the greater good. 
 
Yikes long winded again......we do need opportunities headed in both 
directions for folks to realize their own dreams and aspirations, 
whatever they may be.
 
Dale
--- TriDog 10.0
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