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I was invited to participate in a student-led January-term course called ``The Experiments in Education Workshop'' at the Johnston Center for Individualized Education at the University of Redlands, in Redlands, California in January of 1995. This document was prepared during that January. Its intention is to provide something in the way of a context of alternative education and educational reform for Hampshire College. It should provide concrete ideas and experiences, as well as some philosophical exploration, for Hampshire to consider in its current tinkerings with its academic programs.
This report is certainly not meant to be a complete history or description of Johnston or Hampshire. Its focus is those parts of Johnston history and structure that are most interesting to Hampshire. Comparisons of the schools are included for two reasons. First, they are included to enlighten our study of Johnston by providing a reference Hampshire readers are familiar with; second, they serve the function of placing Hampshire in a context, rather than simply providing that context.
At the same time, I should also admit that I have other goals for the paper. For Johnston, I hope to provide a document that may inform current and future students in understanding, making the best of, and improving their institution. The month I spent in Redlands shows incredible potential for a rewarding relationship between Johnston and Hampshire. I hope that this experience paves the way for that relationship to be realized.