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Program Overview
Introduction to the WPI Plan
The WPI Plan is a groundbreaking program in higher education that was implemented at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. The plan was the result of a bold experiment in education, which began in the late 1960s. It is a story of one college's reaction to changing times and its transformation into a model of innovation.
Creation of the Plan
The creation of the WPI Plan began with the work of a faculty planning committee appointed by WPI President Harry Storke in 1968. The committee consisted of nine remarkable men who were passionate about education and convinced that WPI could be a better and more innovative institution. They offered their ideas, opinions, time, and unwavering support as the process of shaping the plan moved forward.
Key Components of the Plan
- The plan was designed to be a radically different approach to technological education.
- It involved uprooting WPI's traditional engineering curriculum and replacing it with a new program.
- The plan maintained a focus on community and the practical application of knowledge.
Implementation of the Plan
The implementation of the WPI Plan was a monumental effort that involved the entire college community. Many faculty members played roles in the birth of the plan, and they became officers and foot soldiers in the more than decade-long campaign known as Implementation. This effort involved turning the educational program approved by the faculty in 1970 into a workable system.
Challenges and Triumphs
- The implementation of the plan faced internal and external threats.
- Despite these challenges, the plan survived and thrived due to the devotion and endless energy of its supporters.
- The plan's success is a testament to the power of innovation and community in higher education.
Impact of the Plan
The beneficiaries of the WPI Plan are the students who have earned their degrees through this innovative approach to education. Their story is still being written, and the plan continues to evolve to meet the challenges of the decades ahead.
Research and Education
- The plan has enabled WPI to become a leader in technological higher education.
- It has allowed the institution to focus on areas of research and education that are critical to the future of society.
- The plan has created a community of scholars who are passionate about learning and committed to making a positive impact on the world.