Essential Information

Even though each Arts First seminar is designed around a unique theme, we have compiled some basic components that comprise a kind of intellectual center of gravity for the program.

First, we ask all instructors to use the common course descriptions and learning outcomes for ARTS 130 and ARTS 140 in the design of each seminar. 

Second, we encourage all instructors to follow a set of best practices. These are evidence-based approaches to pedagogy that foster an effective learning environment and that create a similar experience for students across Arts First sections. 

Third, we’ve developed a common set of assignment guidelines to make sure that there is consistency across sections. We have over 120 sections per year and over 1200 students a year take Arts First seminars, and the assignment guidelines ensure a similar experience for students across sections.