Many campuses use some form of common read, but I think that our campus and others have had various experiences with how useful and generally engaging the read has been.
I first encountered the Common Read at the University of South Dakota. The Read was limited to incoming Honors students, about 120-150 students. I find that limitation elitist, but the University did a great job engaging students. Early in the first semester, freshman Honors students were invited by the President to a dinner. Each table had a discussion leader-a faculty or staff member who had read the book and prepared for the discussion. A wonderful engagement of students, faculty, and staff in an intellectual community. I could only wish it were broader and even more sustained.
The University of Idaho did a wonderful job selecting books, and always brought the author to campus, usually in Fall. All students were expected to read the book, and faculty were urged to use the book in their first year seminars. Authors visited campus, engaging with faculty and students. Authors had a small dinner with the President, which my wife and I always found special, though perhaps a bit too exclusive. The day was capped by a public presentation. Most memorable was the presentation by Tara Westover of her book, “Educated”. A memoir set in Idaho and dealing with many issues, including what it means to become educated. The talk engaged the Moscow community, who filled the 600 seats in our ballroom…leaving about 400 spots on the floor for students who came minutes before the talk. A great evening, but I think we need to think of ways to make these occasions even more engaging-for faculty, staff, students, and community.
I’d love to hear experiences on other campuses-please comment!