After the meeting, Bossert said the Faculty may be opposed to the idea because it "mistrusts" students' ability to choose challenging courses in several departments.

Some Faculty also expressed concern that the introductory nature of Core courses hinders students from becoming more advanced in fields outside their concentration.

"For students who want to pursue a field in some depth--or students who have some background--we should not let the Core stand in the way of their education," said Gary J. Feldman, Baird professor of science.

Presenting a report written by three members of the Undergraduate Council to the Faculty, Sarah K. Hurwitz '99 echoed the sentiment that the Core limits students who have enthusiasm or prior experience in areas outside their concentration.

The report by Hurwitz, James T.L. Grimmelmann '99 and Benjamin A. Rahn '99, also states that the Core penalizes students who switch concentrations by forcing them to repeat course work.

In addition, the report argues that, while reducing the number of required Core classes from eight to seven gives students one more elective, it does not increase the flexibility of the Core.

The students proposed that some departmental courses be allowed to count for Core credit, in addition to the existing Core classes.

"Only in the one or two areas in which they are most prepared and motivated will students take the departmental route," the report states.

Rahn said some Faculty showed their support for the students' report after the meeting.

"We were very pleased that many Faculty members' thoughts coincided with ours," he said.

Some Faculty members also expressed dismay that Core classes are large and students rarely interact with their professors.

Lawrence Buell, Marquand professor of English, proposed that the Core be restructured to offer small, interactive course options, similar to freshman seminars. His suggestion was supported by the Faculty.

Junior Faculty Report

The Faculty applauded in response to the announcement by Dean of the Faculty Jeremy R. Knowles about the acceptance of three proposals made in the junior faculty report.

Under the new policies, assistant professors on one pay scale will receive a paid leave after being promoted to associate professor. The salaries of faculty on the other scale will be raised commensurately.

In addition, the rental subsidy for those in Harvard Real Estate housing will be replaced with an across-the-board housing allowance of $3,000 for all junior faculty.

Finally, the travel allowance for junior and senior faculty will be raised from $800 to $1,000, allowing roll-over from year-to-year