Alfonso Mucci

The sciences, particularly the natural sciences, have evolved through the realization that understanding many natural processes requires an inter-disciplinary approach. Consequently, the challenge upon us is to teach our students the principles (i.e., basic tools and language) of several disciplines within the constraints of departmental programs, to make them reach out and think out of the box.

This challenge cannot be met by reformulating existing programs, but by creating new programs that transgress the boundaries of disciplinary units. Alternatively, the early integration of undergraduate students into active research programs would allow students to realize the need to broaden their knowledge base, providing impetus to seek courses outside their major concentration, and formulate an academic program that is curiosity driven rather than pre-cast.