1.) Compare the story of Stanfordís transformation after World War II presented in the movie with the one presented by Rebecca Lowen. Where do they agree? Where do they disagree? Can you account for the differences?

2.) The changes at Stanford after 1945 were in many ways emblematic of the changes in California as a whole during these years. Use the case of Stanford to develop a list of the various ways that California was transformed in the 1950s.

3.) What were to strengths and weaknesses of Frederick Termanís "steeples of excellence" approach to university development. Is it an approach that other universities should emulate?

4.) This movie introduces you to the student unrest of the 1960s, a topic which we will examine again in other films and readings. What exactly triggered student unrest at Stanford? What were the effects of this unrest on the university? How do the student movements of the 1960s change your view of the Terman years?

5.) The movie offers an account of Stanfordís role in the development of Silicon Valley. Did Stanford play an indispensable role in the making of Silicon Valley or were other factors more important? Has the linkage between Stanford and Silicon Valley been a good thing for the university? Has it been good for Silicon Valley? What is your ultimate historical evaluation of the Stanford-Silicon Valley relationship?
 

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