In 1945, Harvard President James Bryant Conant prompted the institution's faculty to create the "General Education in a Free Society" report, reflecting a pivot towards professional learning in American higher education.
Faced with the increased popularity of professional learning programs such as business and accounting, Harvard President James Bryant Conant in 1945 prompted the institution's faculty to create the now-famous report entitled "General Education in a Free Society." This movement to expand and adapt higher education curricula was reflective of the broader trends in American education during the mid-20th century, including the dramatic increase in the education level of the US workforce due to the GI Bill and the subsequent rise in productivity.
Education underwent significant changes during this time, not only in response to societal needs such as the influx of nonwealthy students due to the GI Bill but also due to shifts in the economy that valued professional and vocational training. This was evident as institutions like Harvard recognized the need to review and revise their educational offerings to remain relevant and provide the skills and knowledge necessary in an evolving society and job market.