9/1/1976, Burlington Free Press

STUDENT CHARTS OWN COURSE

PLAINFIELD -- Students determine their own course of study in each of the Goddard programs; consequently, many of the final studies reflect an interdisciplinary approach.

For example, one student translated from Spanish to English the works of Mexican women writers, while another did historical research, including the original data gathering, on the American Indian wars. The various programs provide the framework within which the student defines and explores his or her interests.

Recently, however, the protection and reclamation of a balanced environment has aroused nationwide concern. Goddard recognized the importance of this particular curriculum area with the establishment of its Social Ecology Institute in 1975 which concentrates its offerings in the Summer Program but also serves undergraduate and graduate students.

The institute was founded on the premise that social ecology should not be seen as merely a study of technology. It is an attempt to discover how people can end the domination of nature by man by breaking down patterns of human exploitation.

The 40-acre learning and research center is at Cate Farm, adjacent to Goddard's main campus. The farm contains sites suitable for testing wind power, water for aquacultural ponds, extensive barn facilities for laboratories and classes, and a 19th Century brick farmhouse which is being refitted for energy conservation.