Self-Directed Learning with the BPATS Program
The New School’s Bachelor’s Program for Adults and Transfer Students (BPATS) is committed to experiential learning that is: 1) rooted in the concept of praxis (the production of new knowledge or insight that grows from the iterative relationship between action and reflection); and 2) engages at least two of the following: social justice, creative practice, intellectual inquiry, and civic engagement.
With Fall 2019 registration coming up next week, the BPATS program wants to remind you that as part of our commitment to experiential learning, Self-Directed learning provides a pathway for BPATS students to work inside and outside the classroom as they consider the following questions:What does it mean to make something?What theories of experience and learning guide my project?What contributions does my project make to already-existing work in the field?What role does reflection play in ensuring excellence and rigor in what I create?What does it mean to be both learner and a practitioner?
During the first semester, students enroll in Self-Directed Learning Fundamentals, a 10-week, 2-credit course focused on creating a project proposal. The development of the proposal is guided by: building knowledge of the field, understanding theories of learning, experience, and practice, and refining proposal writing/project development skills. In the second semester, students enroll in Self-Directed Learning Reflections, a 5-week, one-credit course focused on reflection and supporting you as you carry out your projects. You can also gain up to 6 credits from your project.
After the initial year of guided coursework and project-based work, you can propose additional Self-Directed Learning for new components of your original project and/or new projects. Students may earn a total of 12 Self-Directed Learning credits toward their degree. Credits earned through Self-Directed Learning Projects are at a reduced-cost, but count the same as any other credits you earn.
If you have completed the Pathways to Learning Course or the Prior Learning workshop, have at least 5 credits and 2 semesters left to graduate, are self-motivated, and believe in the value of connecting classroom learning to out-of-classroom experience, and your schedule provides enough flexibility to not only come to class, but also to carry out your project in the Spring semester, then you are qualified to apply for the Self-Directed Learning courses.
To apply, complete this form no later than May 3, 2019.Â