College Learning Goals Policy

Sponsor:

 Office of Academic Affairs

Contact:

 Vice Provost

Category:

 Academic

Number:

 100.043

Effective Date:

 2012/01/01

Implementation History:

Keywords:

 College learning goals

Background Information:

The college Senate approved the College Level Learning Goals Policy on 12/2/2011.

Purpose

Philosophy and Rationale

Growing out of SUNY Empire State College’s unique mission, the learning goals outlined below serve as a vital link between the college’s historical mission, the current context of rapid educational change, and the future of our institution in a global society where knowledge and learning remain urgently important. These statements encapsulate the values that we bring to our work with students, and they articulate our hopes for our graduates. We also believe it is our responsibility as educators to enter into collaborative relationships with future students, which requires transparency about our goals and values. Finally, by clearly stating these goals, we will be able to both reflect upon our students’ and our own success through a creative, collaborative and iterative assessment process that extends across multiple institutional levels.

Definitions

Statements

Graduates of SUNY Empire State College will demonstrate competence in the following areas of learning, appropriate to their degree levels. At the graduate level, these goals will be incorporated as appropriate to the program of study.

  • Active Learning: Assess and build upon previous learning and experiences to pursue new learning, independently and in collaboration with others. 
  • Breadth and Depth of Knowledge: Cultivate a broad, interdisciplinary understanding in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as expertise in a particular field. 
  • Social Responsibility: Engage in ethical reasoning, and reflect on issues such as democratic citizenship, diversity, social justice and environmental sustainability, both locally and globally. 
  • Communication: Express and receive ideas effectively, in multiple contexts and through multiple strategies. 
  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Evaluate, analyze, synthesize and critique key concepts and experiences, and apply diverse perspectives to find creative solutions to problems concerning human behavior, society and the natural world. 
  • Quantitative Literacy: Read, interpret, use and present quantitative information effectively. 
  • Information and Digital Media Literacy: Critically access, evaluate, understand, create and share information using a range of collaborative technologies to advance learning, as well as personal and professional development.

Applicable Legislation and Regulations

Characteristics of Excellence, MSCHE

Related References, Policies, Procedures, Forms and Appendices

2011-2015 Academic Plan