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, students shall possess sufficient depth in some field of knowledge to contribute to lifelong learning and continued personal, academic, and professional growth.
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
Citrus College has identified core competencies that reflect important areas of student learning across the college. These competencies may be addressed through General Education, major coursework, certificates, degrees, student services, academic support, and other college experiences.
Student Learning Outcomes, or SLOs, describe the measurable skills, abilities, competencies, knowledge, or values students are expected to demonstrate after completing an educational experience. At Citrus College, SLOs are established for courses, programs, certificates, degrees, student services, academic support, and designated administrative support services.
General Education courses support many of the college’s core competencies; however, core competencies are not limited to General Education, and not all SLOs are General Education SLOs. General Education Student Learning Outcomes identify the learning students are expected to demonstrate through completion of courses in specific GE areas.
SLO assessment provides a framework for reviewing student learning, reflecting on instructional practices, and strengthening student success. General Education learning outcomes are assessed through systematic analysis of course- and program-level assessment results.
Citrus College Core Competencies
Communication
Reading analytically and critically; speaking articulately; writing with clarity and fluency; and listening actively.
Computation
Math proficiency; decision analysis; synthesis and evaluation; and application of mathematical concepts and reasoning.
Creative, Critical, and Analytical Thinking / Information Competency
Creative, Critical, and Analytical Thinking: curiosity; analysis; synthesis; evaluation; creativity; research; learning strategies; problem solving; decision making; and aesthetic awareness.
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.
Community/Global Consciousness and Responsibility
Awareness of environmental issues and 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.
Technology
Computer proficiency, including basic computing and word processing.
Discipline/Subject Area Specific Content Material
Discipline- and subject-area-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities are developed through courses, programs, certificates, and degrees.
Student Learning Outcomes are written in selected areas of competency at the course level, program level, and degree and certificate levels. Learning outcomes are mapped to show the relationships between and among these levels.
Citrus College General Education Student Learning Outcomes
General Education Student Learning Outcomes describe the learning students are expected to demonstrate through completion of courses within the college’s General Education areas:
Area 1: Language and Rationality
Students successfully completing courses in Area 1 are able to read, write, speak, and think creatively in personal, academic, workplace, and community contexts.
This area includes:
- English Composition
- Communication and Analytical Thinking
- Mathematical Concepts and Quantitative Reasoning
Area 2: Mathematics
Student Learning Outcomes for Mathematics are pending Curriculum Committee discussion.
Area 3: Arts and Humanities
Students successfully completing courses in Area 3 are able to appreciate, critically understand, and express artistic, philosophical, and cultural sensibilities in historical and contemporary contexts.
This area includes:
- Arts
- Humanities
Area 4: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Students successfully completing courses in Area 4 are able to identify, analyze, and communicate an understanding of self and society through systematic investigation of social behavior, institutions, and culture.
This area includes:
- History and Political Science
- Behavioral Sciences
Area 5: Natural Sciences
Students successfully completing courses in Area 5 are able to investigate and explain physical phenomena through application of empirical knowledge using mathematical and scientific processes and concepts.
This area includes:
- Biological Sciences
- Physical Sciences
Area 6: Personal Health and Wellness
Students successfully completing courses in Area 6 are able to demonstrate personal responsibility, health literacy, and understanding of the importance of mental and physical health and wellbeing.
This area includes:
- Kinesiology
- Dance
- Counseling
Area 7: Ethnic Studies
Students successfully completing courses in Area 7 are able to examine the experiences, contributions, and perspectives of historically marginalized racial and ethnic groups in the United States.
This area includes:
Baccalaureate-level courses in the four autonomous disciplines within Ethnic Studies: Black Studies, African American Studies, and Africana Studies; Native American Studies; Chicano/a/x, Latino/a/x Studies, and La Raza Studies; and Asian American Studies.