Vilnius Cooperative College

This article provides an overview of the Experiential Explorations Program (EEP) for creative majors in the College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) at the University of Cincinnati (UC). A brief evolution of this curricular innovation is provided and we focus on the current state of the program. We outline the pedagogical model with a focus on structure, accountability, and mentorship. EEP case studies are presented for three students across majors and class years. These serve to celebrate student success while providing an in-depth view of possibilities for self-directed learning in creative fields. Challenges and opportunities for continued evolution of the EEP model are discussed.

Social economic risk factors of country risk assessment of Lithuania have been analysed in the article. Recent economic downturn caused and sharpened a number of economic and social problems. Poor economic recovery, high rate of unemployment, social and economic inequality, not flexible and dynamic structure of industry might be considered as factors which will limit the economic growth and prosperity in the country for upcoming decade. Analysis has suggested that Lithuania has reached 72% of European Union economic level. In order to achieve the average of European Union’s countries economic level Lithuania has to gain more than 4% of growth of GDP rate annually. In the context of regional deep recession or country’s dependency on European market, it seems impossible to achieve this goal in 2030 if other variables have not change. Analysis of Lithuanian industry and export structure suggested that Lithuania mainly produce low value added goods and this has not changed for the last decade. It was identified that Lithuania is experiencing high level of social exclusion which negatively affect the development of the country. Social economic trends might do high pressure on state budget demanding increase taxes tariffs and expand tax base in the country.