General Education and Student Learning Outcomes

General Education Philosophy

The awarding of an associate degree is intended to represent more than an accumulation of units. It symbolizes a successful attempt on the part of Citrus College to lead students through patterns of learning experiences designed to develop certain capabilities and insights, such as the ability to:

• Think and communicate clearly and effectively through oral and written expression
• Develop logical and convincing arguments, reaching conclusions that are based on comprehensive inquiry
• Adapt and apply technology to facilitate the acquisition and effective use of information
• Understand the modes of inquiry of the major disciplines
• Enhance the appreciation of the arts
• Develop a lifestyle that will enhance physical and mental health, and wellness
• Appreciate the contributions of different cultures, eras, and traditions to the human experience
• Achieve insights gained through experience in thinking about ethics, integrity, honesty, self-management and the welfare of others
• Develop the capacity for self-understanding; and become informed citizens and problem solvers

In addition to these accomplishments, the student shall possess sufficient depth in some field of knowledge to contribute to lifetime interest.

Central to an associate degree, General Education is designed to introduce students to the variety of means through which people comprehend the modern world. It reflects the conviction of colleges that those who receive their degrees must possess in common certain basic principles, concepts and methodologies both unique to and shared by the various disciplines. College educated persons must be able to use this knowledge when evaluating and appreciating the physical environment, the culture, and the society in which they live. Most importantly, General Education should lead to better self-understanding.

Citrus College Core Competencies and Student Learning Outcomes

General education competencies serve as a common set of core curricular components identified and defined by faculty. Student learning outcomes are behaviors based on these competencies.

Any student transferring or completing a degree or certificate from Citrus College must demonstrate effectively assessed awareness, understanding, knowledge, skills, and abilities in the selected competencies. These learning outcomes address the general education philosophy of the college (BP 4100, Graduation Requirements).

1. Communication
   Reading analytically and critically; speaking articulately; writing with clarity and fluency; and listening actively.
2. Computation
   Math proficiency; decision analysis; synthesis and evaluation; and application of mathematical concepts and reasoning.
3. Creative, Critical, and Analytical Thinking / Information Competency
   1. Creative, Critical, and Analytical Thinking: curiosity; analysis; synthesis; evaluation; creativity; research; learning strategies; problem solving; decision making; and aesthetic awareness.
   2. Information Competency: determine the nature and extent of the information needed; access needed information effectively and efficiently; evaluate information and its sources critically; and access and use information ethically and legally.
4. Community/Global Consciousness and Responsibility
   Awareness of environmental issues/sustainable resources; respect for other beings; cultural awareness; ethics; community service; integrity; citizenship; interpersonal skills; lifelong learning; self-esteem; empathy; personal responsibility; physical health and wellbeing; and health literacy.
5. Technology
   Computer proficiency; and basic computing and word processing.
6. Discipline/Subject Area Specific Content Material

Student learning outcomes are written in selected areas of competency at the course level (course outlines of record), program level (program review reports), and degree and certificate levels. Learning outcomes are mapped to show the relationships between and among the levels. General education learning outcomes are assessed through systematic analysis of course and program level assessment results.