University of Michigan - Michiganensian Yearbook (Ann Arbor, MI)

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Prof. Zvi Gitelman, Political Science Prof. William Willcox, History Prof. Theodore Buttrey, Classical Studies Prof. Robert Skla r, American Studies

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Prof. William Rosenberg, History of. Howard Cameron, Classics

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. Donald Hall, English Are professors really frustrated ham actors? Performance in class might lead one to agree but enthusiasm, organization and a thorough knowledge of the field relate the individual man to his subject. Professors generally love their work but use different techniques to carry across their ideas. Professor Rosenberg of the history department sees lecturing as a frame of mind. He encourages student participation by asking ques- tions and stimulating conversation. Passive students are a constant source of disap- pointment to a professor who believes in challenging the thought process. Acquainting students with new ideas and developing the imagination is Professor Buttrey ' s major theme in teaching Greek literature. His personal philosophy is that life is art and art is ethics. Professor Sklar, much like Buttrey in his methods likes to free student minds into emerging into independent intellects. Sklar is a writer who likes what he writes and teaches, American Studies. Another writer who has become an example of the poet as man and artist, Professor Hall co-ordinates an inter arts sensitivity. He is extremely popular with students because of his generous donation of time. The intensity of art is also found in Professor Isaacson who is impressed with what artists are capable of producing. Lecturing on History of Art, Isaacson follows a chro- nological order and discovers a time and a meaning in each painting. The relationship of the artist and his life is of utmost importance. Describing the indirect relevance of history to contemporary life is the goal of history Professor Willcox. As living proof that enthusiasm is contagious, Willcox believes that history teaches no simple solutions. He uses anecdotes to summarize material which might have taken fifteen minutes to explain, thus capturing student interest. Other professors such as Classical Studies Professor Cameron have no special techni- ques except the belief in the intrinsic merit of their subjects. Humor, a necessary ingredient in the classroom is vital to Professor McConnell. As a scientist, he believes in combining data with the lighter side of life. Publisher of the Worm Runners Digest, McConnell enlightens students with his wit. Another criterion for professorship is organization. Professor Gitelman, Eastern Eu ropean Political Science, recognizes that few people have a past knowledge of his ma- terial. He stresses fact for half of a semester and later bombards students with litera- ture and controversial issues. Although professors vary in teaching methods, subjects and ideas, they agree that above all a love of their work and a desire to communicate are necessary in gaining student response at a large university. 27