Ernest L. Boyer, the Christian College, and the Uneasy Tension between the Curriculum and the Cocurriculum

Abstract

In this article the selected works of Ernest Boyer are examined in the context of curricular and cocurricular integration. The authors argue that Boyer advocated for a closer connection between the academic and student affairs programs on American college campuses and further contend that this is particularly true and important for Christian colleges. They also propose that Christian colleges should be receptive to this connection due to the existence of an integrative climate, whole-person focus, and the relatively small size of the average Christian campus. A review of relevant literature is also provided as further evidence of current thought and best practice in regard to this important topic. Finally, the authors provide five strategic considerations for campuses desiring to create more meaningful integration between the classroom and out-of-classroom experiences of students. These five are: (a) Acknowledge Existing Barriers, (b) Adopt Common Values and Language, (c) Implement Learning Theory Pedagogy, (d) Examine Current Organizational Structures, and (e) Reward and Celebrate Collaboration and Integration.