‘City as Text’ Experience Takes Honors Students Beyond Books
A hundred new Honors students wrapped up their HONR 101 experience on Monday, Oct. 5, when this year’s City as Text ™ final showcase took over the Cedric Rucker University Center’s Chandler Ballroom.
The program, adapted from a pedagogy trademarked by the National Collegiate Honors Council, centers on an expedition to a designated area that participants are encouraged to explore and reflect upon critically, as one might reflect upon a text.
Students are trained by campus experts on basic fieldwork techniques and the ethics of observation in a new environment, then dispersed in small groups led by volunteer upperclassmen. Along the way, they make connections and build relationships, which in turn strengthens ties between UMW and the Fredericksburg community.
The experience culminates in a two-hour event where groups present their findings to the University community as well as to various city leaders.
“City as Text offers students opportunities to explore Fredericksburg and engage with local businesses in a low-stakes, high-curiosity environment,” said Professor of Chemistry Kelli Slunt, who directs the Honors Program. “The experience emphasizes exploration, observation and interpretation, encouraging students to ask questions and make connections without the pressure of finding a ‘right’ answer.”
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