Enhancing Moral Reasoning and Ethical Decision-Making through Liberal Arts Learning in Higher Education
Keywords:
Liberal Arts Education; Moral Reasoning; Ethical Decision-Making; Higher Education; Critical ThinkingAbstract
This study investigates the role of Liberal Arts learning in enhancing moral reasoning and ethical decision-making among university students. In response to increasing ethical challenges in higher education and society, this research explores how pedagogical practices grounded in liberal arts education contribute to students’ moral development. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the study analyzes how critical thinking, ethical dilemma discussions, and problem-based learning foster moral sensitivity, moral judgment, and ethical action. The findings reveal that liberal arts education provides a structured environment that integrates knowledge, skills, and values, enabling students to develop reflective and responsible decision-making abilities. Furthermore, interactive and student-centered learning strategies such as case studies, collaborative discussions, and experiential learning significantly strengthen students’ capacity to evaluate moral issues critically. The study concludes that liberal arts learning is an effective pedagogical framework for cultivating ethical awareness and moral reasoning in higher education. These findings highlight the importance of embedding structured ethical learning into university curricula to prepare students as morally responsible and socially engaged citizens.
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