Human Horizons Initiative

What is Human Horizons?

Human Horizons is an initiative at Houston Community College that promotes student success by providing all students with the opportunity to engage deeply with transformative texts in discussion-based general education courses. At least 50% of the readings in a Human Horizons course come from a shared list of 150 transformative texts curated by an interdisciplinary faculty committee. The list is shared across disciplines to expose students to multiple approaches to the same texts and to promote a common experience. Rooted in a distinct pedagogy that fosters lifelong learning, Human Horizons empowers students to find their voice within higher education, equipping them with the intellectual foundation to thrive academically, professionally, and as engaged members of society.

How Do Human Horizons Courses Promote Student Success?

Engagement with Transformative Texts Through engaging, multi-layered discussions, students learn to read critically, think analytically, and express their ideas clearly and creatively, skills that are valuable for transfer students and in the work force. 

• Engagement with Transformative Texts
  Transformative texts challenge perspectives, foster self-reflection, and encourage intellectual curiosity. Texts assigned in these courses, such as Homer’s The Odyssey, Frederick Douglass’s Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, and Plato’s Republic are examples of texts that explore key themes relevant to our students including belonging, self-determination, education, freedom, and justice. Engaging deeply with such works helps students connect their experiences to broader human questions, strengthening critical thinking and investment in their scholarly growth.
  
  
• A Discussion-Based Pedagogy
  Human Horizons courses use a seminar model where students actively engage in dialogue. Instead of seeking right answers, students analyze, discuss, and develop interpretations. This approach builds confidence, sharpens critical thinking and communication skills, and prepares students for academic and professional success.
  
  
• Committed Faculty
  Faculty complete specialized workshops to lead discussion-based courses effectively. They are passionate about student success, guiding them in developing intellectual voices and critical inquiry skills. By modeling scholarly engagement, faculty help students build lifelong habits of reflection and civic participation.
  
  

Funding & Support

Human Horizons is supported by a $275,000 Teagle Foundation grant under the Cornerstone: Learning for Living initiative. Awarded in May 2024, this grant funds a three-year effort to embed transformative texts in general education. Project directors include Joanna Fax, David Liakos, Melinda Mejia, Jacob Mills, and Nathan Smith.