Advantages And Disadvantages Of Calvin's Core Requirements

At Calvin College, one topic that all students are familiar with is the debate on Calvin's core requirements. Responses to the subject evoke a wide array of differing emotions. Some recognize the importance of a core curriculum, some are against the substantial requirements, and some are confused by their purpose, or feel indifferent on the issue. Along with these viewpoints comes a range of emotional intensity. While some are unconcerned or slightly lenient towards one side, other's express passion and frustration. Despite one's feelings on the topic, it is essential to recognize the advantages of the requirements that overshadow the disadvantages. Although Calvin's requirements are extensive, the core classes students have to take are beneficial and serve a purpose.
As a way of motivating students through their senioritis, it is common for teachers and parents to explain "The point of high school is to find your interests, and the point of college is to pursue those interests." Because of this view, many freshman students do not understand the purpose or value to a liberal arts education. Moreover, the lack of clarity about the purpose of the core curriculum leads students to being annoyed and resentful. This feeling of opposition leads to assumptions such as: core is a waste of time, it is only to meet people outside one's major, and the requirements need to be reformed. Instead of being intentional and interested about what one is learning, students feel obligated to take the classes, which results in lack of motivation. However, the expansive amount of core requirements is intentional enforced by Calvin, and the classes do serve a purpose--just as they did in high