In this unit’s reading, Comparing Cultures the author talks about how most undergraduate courses are taught. I must say that the author’s description is pretty spot on. Most of the courses I’ve taken consist of me showing up to a huge lecture where the professor recites the lecture slides. Not to mention, the professors who have consistently taught the same course for multiple terms will use the same material every term. This way of teaching is not effective and like Lessig states, “Students don’t listen to lectures” (pg. 86). I don’t know about you but I get bored when professors just stand there and read off of the slides and other things usually distract me.

Moreover, Lessig introduces the way that law school courses teach their students which is through an active forum method. This method allows students to participate in the lecture and gain active knowledge. In my opinion, this active forum method is much more effective for learning. Even if a student is not participating in the discussion this method requires the students to be attentive during the lecture. I agree with Lessig’s statement that, “This form of education teaches responsibility as well as the subject. It develops an ethic as well as knowledge about a particular field” (pg. 86). I wish that more courses were like this because I find it easier to learn.

References:

Lessig, L. (2008). Comparing Cultures. Remix: Making Art and Commerce Thrive in the Hybrid Economy (pp. 84-116). New York: Penguin Press HC, The.