Bringing Theory to Practice Monographs: The Civic Series

Posted by on August 26, 2013

Bringing Theory to Practice Monographs
The Civic Series

At a time when people are changing in their civic, demographic, technological, and economic characteristics—in society and higher education—what is, or should be, the civic mission of higher education? This new series raises questions and provides perspectives on fundamental issues

Many colleges and universities were established with a civic mission, and are ideally positioned for its renewal. Their founding papers include, “knowledge for society” or “education for democracy,” their students
will become civic leaders, and their faculty members could share civic ideas in classrooms.

Societies change, however, and when they do, offer opportunities for colleges and universities to consider or reconsider their priorities. At a time when people are changing in their civic, demographic, technological, and economic characteristics—in society and higher education—institutions should reflect on their mission and build capacity for the years ahead.

What is, or should be, the civic mission of higher education? This question is important at the present time, and its answers raise methodological, pedagogical, and institutional issues on campus and in the community.

The Civic Series aims to engage educators in conversations about the civic mission of higher education. It includes informal essays intended to invigorate the intellectual climate and promote public discussion. We believe that if each generation of visionary thinkers were to share their boldest ideas about the civic mission of higher education, it would contribute to our cause on campus and in the community.

Each monograph in the series has an editor and authors who are highly experienced and deeply committed to our purpose. We are privileged to have Donald Harward as editor of both Civic Provocations and Civic Values, Civic Practices; Peter Levine and Karol Sołtan as editors of Civic Studies; Ashley Finley as editor of Civic Learning and Teaching; and Jill N. Reich as editor of Civic Engagement, Civic Development, and Higher Education. Each volume is distinct, and together they offer fresh ideas about the civic mission of contemporary higher education.

Bringing Theory to Practice continues in its efforts to build a learning community around issues like these, and the civic series advances its purpose. If these essays stimulate—or even provoke—your thinking, and
cause you to take action on your thoughts, our purpose will be served.

Barry Checkoway, General Editor

http://www.aacu.org/bringing_theory/documents/Brochure_FINAL.pdf