1P1 Common and Shared Learning Objectives

Shared learning outcomes were based on the question “What skills do employers of STI’s graduates expect?” and were initially modeled after the Department of Labor SCANS Report for 1991 and 2000, similar outcomes at peer institutions, and national employer surveys. Faculty, administration, and staff identified eight institutional learning outcomes in 1995; these were revised to four outcomes in 2005. These common learning outcomes are reviewed periodically and updated as needed by the AQIP Education Design and Delivery and AQIP Futures teams. Suggested changes are presented to faculty for input and approval.

Common learning outcomes are taught within each program (mapping matrices) and are reinforced by general education core courses.

General Education at STI functions as an integral but complementary component of the AAS and diploma programs. General Education is designed as a coherent core of courses taught by qualified faculty in the General Education Division. Courses are intentionally integrated within each semester of the degree and diploma programs. Secondly, General Education division faculty meet once a month to address concerns and develop strategies for student success. Every full-time general education faculty member serves on Program Advisory Committees to strengthen the integration of general education courses within the programs. This participation and feedback contributes to the relevance and currency of general education courses.

The General Education mission and purposes are stated on the STI website and in the STI Catalog.