Introducing Dr. Ray Wheeler
|
Dr. Ray Wheeler Why the Liberal Arts?The most important feature of a liberal arts education is that it genuinely prepares you for a life of constant change, which contrary to popular opinion, makes it the most practical education of all. At its core the liberal arts, among other things, is based on the pragmatic notion that if you know how to think critically, if you know how to solve problems, if you know how to distinguish between hot air and substance, and if you know how to communicate all of these matters effectively, you have acquired the most important characteristics that any education can offer you. The liberal arts also take into consideration what it means to be human. A liberal arts education asks you to sample a broad range of subjects that help you understand what it means to become a fully rounded human being. It is, then, not just a narrow preparation for a job that may have become extinct before you graduate; rather it is preparation for the profession of life. How to Succeed at the University? Well, here are two suggestions, and I know you’ve heard them before. But they bear repeating. Make academics your first job. You might have to work elsewhere, but don’t work so much that you’re too tired to study. Learn to communicate well in speech and writing. Nothing can compensate for poor skills in these areas, and with determination you can become skilled at both. Other good things will follow. How to Be Happy Every Minute of Your Life? 1. Stop trying to get what you want, and want what you get. 2. Identify with the "world will" (what Nietzsche called amor fati--love of one's fate). But it won't be easy. |
What Do I Teach?Come to my office, and you can get a copy of a syllabus for any of these courses (or see Links to my syllabi below). Composition
I-- This is the basic composition course that most freshmen
take their first semester at the university. This course can improve your
performance throughout your university career. Take it very seriously; it’s
tremendously valuable.
Composition
II-- The second basic composition
course concentrates on the research paper and techniques for constructing
serious arguments.
Composition III--This is a course in writing creative non-fiction in all of its various and interesting forms. You’ll get lots of personal attention here. The emphasis is on developing a more mature style in your writing. Creative
Writing-- If you’re interested in learning to write poetry,
fiction, drama, or creative non-fiction, this is the course for you. Try out
several genres, and discover your favorite.
Advanced Creative Writing-- You can concentrate on one or several literary genres in greater length and depth in this course. Take the beginning course first, and then follow your muse. There’s great freedom here. Types of Literature-- This is a basic introduction to works in the four literary genres: fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction. Lots of interesting and stimulating discussions here. Introduction to Philosophy-- This is a challenging and mind-bending introduction to some of the great philosophical questions. This course can have a profound impact on your life. How to Reach Me?Office: 216 Stickney Hall. Telephone: 483-2586 E-Mail: What Do I Do Other than Teach?I write plays, short fiction, and creative non-fiction and have published in numerous regional and national publications. I’m a longtime gardener, specializing in tomatoes, garlic, and peppers. I also love to play tennis, jog merrily, watch birds, and ride bulls. Links to my syllabi: Composition 120 Syllabus--2002 |
|
