MLS Faculty & Students Meet to Discuss the Future of the BA in English

MLS Faculty & Students Meet to Discuss the Future of the BA in English
By G.Cocozza. 
Oct 2014

On September 4th, some professors and students attend- ed a meeting held by the Oficina de Planificación Universitaria (OPLAU), at the Roberto Murillo Auditorium, LE, as part of the process to re-accredit the BA in English.

During this session, professors and students contributed to

the definition of three pillars: the vision, mission and values. These three constants may en- dure throughout the next five years so that the major of English can turn its weaknesses into strengths and make wiser use of its strengths.

Among the opinions that agitated the most were the voices of students requesting for a degree that notes their chosen field of emphasis. With this, they consider they could have a competitive edge over other graduates from private institutions, who undergo study programs that demand less than 3 years in college and earn a BA in English Translation, for example.

They, also, suggested to open an apprenticeship program so that future students find a route that helps them to land a more solid occupation upon graduating. Many other majors at the UCR al- ready offer similar programs such as BA of Science -Mass Commu- nication, BA in Agronomy, BA in Odontology, and others. On the other hand, professors were concerned about the need for technological input and infrastructure. To which many considerations unfold after. Prior investing in high-tech, the school must plan having proper workshops for the use of these resources and impelling those Luddite ones to action-taking.

Also, many professors strongly agreed, the academic level of excellency the School of Modern Languages counts on today results from the in-depth study in literature as a mean that help students for the fully under- standing of a foreign culture and language. “We prepare future humanists, not only prepare people to become bilingual, ” said professor Patricia Barquero.

To date, more meetings will be held in order to discuss the fu- ture of the MLS and most impor- tantly, to accomplish the re-ac- creditation of the BA in English. Students and faculty are highly encouraged to participate and expose their interests and suggestions.

For more information about coming meetings contact pro- fessor Alonso Canales, Acred- itación’s project manager, or visit the Acreditación BA Inglés UCR facebook page.