Shaping Habits of the Mind: The Role of Liberal Education in the Improvement of Practice

Abstract

Liberal education is both discipline-based and multidisciplinary. It can provide a broad knowledge base and cultivate critical reasoning skills. Both are essential for the effective practitioner. They can be fostered by an increased interplay between continuing professional education, continuing liberal education, and the realities of professional life. Examples from practice can provide the basis for a curriculum that effectively increases this interplay. This article describes some valuable program development strategies that can enhance programs for practitioners.