Jim Martin PERSONAL DETAILS Full name: Sheldon James Martin Age: 63 (July) Current occupation: Writer/ music composer Where you live: Madison Wisconsin Your program: Associate/ Fellowship Start date: 2000 1. CHOOSING PATHWAYS How did you find out about us? was it by accident? were you searching for a philosophy course? surfing for a philosophy course after my wife died. What alternatives were you considering at the time? I was drawn to philosophy What considerations were uppermost in your mind when you decided to apply to Pathways? that is was 'online' and the credentials of its founder were impressive. How do you feel about that decision now? It was the right decision because its influences have endure and manifest themselves in many ways. 2. STUDY MATERIALS Did you take any of the six Pathways written programs? which one(s)? Philosophy of Mind How did you find the Pathways study materials? were they too easy, too difficult or just about right? They were foundational for further reading and reflecting How do the Pathways materials rate in comparison with text books that you have seen or studied? The whole universe of philosophy is right in those web pages. One only had to look and link up. Do you feel that you made the right choice of program, or given the chance would you like to try a different Pathway? why? Philosophy of mind was perfect. I hopped on a pony that became a white horse, then a brilliant, blinding stallion I'll ride off into eternity on. 3. PATHWAYS WEB SITE How useful have you found the information provided on the Pathways web pages? All the content relating to the courses and philosophy link were abundant and easy to access. How might the content or layout of the Pathways pages be improved? It's fine. The links take you where you never expected, but if you go there, you find what you are looking for. In your view, does the Pathways web site convey an accurate impression of what it is like to study with Pathways? Not really, That would not be possible. The two ingredients of mentor and student transcend first (or last) 'impressions' 4. INTERACTION WITH YOUR MENTOR Who is/ was your Pathways mentor? Geoffrey Klempner Are you generally happy with the interaction and feedback that you have have received from your mentor? Interaction and feedback was superb. Never black or white. Always gray and revealing. How well, in your view, does the current system of providing mentor interaction work? how would you like to see it improved? for the self-motivated, a mentor system work very well. How does the tuition you received compare with other philosophy courses you have taken, whether online or face-to-face? Very reasonable. I owe Pathways many times over. 5. INTERACTION WITH OTHER STUDENTS Have you ever participated in the Pathways online conferences? No If you did participate, how would you rate the quality of the philosophical discussion? NA If you did not participate, what kind of conference provision would tempt you to join the conference? Would you like to see further opportunities provided for Pathways students to engage in dialogue? do you have any ideas? Just about any topic is fine 6. IMPACT OF STUDYING WITH PATHWAYS What effect, if any, has studying Philosophy with Pathways had on your life? Pathways has provided me pathways on my brief, immense journey. Have you been motivated to continue studying Philosophy after you complete your course? I don't think I ever stopped reading and thinking. Have you taken another Philosophy course? or do you plan to? No What other benefits or consequences have you noticed from studying Philosophy with Pathways? That 'thinking' alone does not make one 'complete' or 'whole' — but hopefully more aware of the conscious nature of things. 7. FUTURE PROJECTS Do you have any thoughts about future projects which we might undertake? A Pathways 'Store' to bring income and identification would be great — and long overdue. Some students have expressed an interest in a conference where Pathways students could meet face-to-face. How do you feel about that idea? A requirement. Would you be prepared to travel to Sheffield to attend a Pathways conference? I would. both formally and informally, before I leave this world. Currently, there are two free Pathways e-journals, Philosophy Pathways and Philosophy for Business. What are your thoughts about a third journal dedicated to publishing the best examples of course work by Pathways students? Best? What is 'Best"? The person who spends the time and effort setting it up can make those decisions. 8. CONTRIBUTING TO PATHWAYS Do you have any thoughts about possible articles for Philosophy Pathways or Philosophy for Business? Or have you already written a piece that you could send us? I have written and submitted my share to date. Have you have successfully completed the ISFP Associate or Fellowship Awards, or the first year of the University of London Diploma or BA in Philosophy? If so, would you like to join the panel of Ask a Philosopher? I'm not qualified If you have successfully completed a BA degree in Philosophy, would you like to become a Pathways mentor? NA 9. GENERAL ASSESSMENT In the most general terms, how would you rate your experience with Pathways: Strongly positive? More positive than negative? About equal? More negative than positive? Strongly negative? Positive. Very positive. How would you summarize the reasons for your assessment? I have a real sense of non-completion, almost a failure as a philosopher. But I'll keep trying, because its the 'trying' that makes it so worthwhile. My assessment comes from that sense of urgency and hope... the perpetual student. Like life itself. As it should be. 10. PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE YOUR COMMENTS Are you prepared to allow us to reproduce any of your comments above, under your name, on the Pathways web site? Yes. Or, is there something in particular you would be prepared to say for publication? **END OF QUESTIONNAIRE** Email info@philosophypathways.com if you would like to comment on this page.