In this program, students will conceive, plan, structure and carry through successfully a major independent learning project. We will do this step-by-step, in close collaboration between professor and individual student, and with the support of peers. At Evergreen, this mode of intellectual and creative work is a hallmark of our belief in fostering self-direction, intellectual discipline and stamina, and in pursuing academic projects about which we are passionate. It is no easy feat, however, to master the fine art of writing and proposing, let alone bringing to fruition, a top quality independent learning project. The purpose of this program is first, to coach you through the conception stage, then, to help you to choose your readings and activities and make your schedule, and finally, to guide and support you along the path to completion of the best work of which you are capable.
Students will meet every week with their professor individually and as a member of a small work and critique group. We will also meet as a large, program group for presentation of methods of analysis and useful materials, and discussion.  Students will report in writing and orally on their progress every week. In the final weeks of the quarter, all students will formally present their completed work to the program.
Students enrolling should have a proposal of a project which they want strongly to undertake, including, at least, the kind of work you plan to do and a narrower theme or avenue within that topic, for example: writing poetry based in landscape, studying closely a favorite work of a given writer or philosopher, studying a particular kind of religious or mythic symbolism. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with Dr. Bailey by email (baileym@evergreen.edu) or at the Academic Fair as they develop the proposal. This proposal should be carefully written, typed, and ready to submit on the first day of class.