To enhance the curriculum for each major, the following activities are in process:
Advisory boards are being established to promote the exchange of information on a regular basis by providing advice and assistance on program promotion, curriculum development, job placement, and program evaluation.
Also, professional development opportunities are provided to faculty for incorporating innovative strategies to teach the 8 workforce competencies identified by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). NACE is an organization that provides information on the employment of college graduates, predicts hiring practices and trends, and connects colleges to the business community. The 8 workforce competencies identified by NACE that college graduates need for success in 21stcentury employment are:
Critical Thinking/Problem Solving- the ability to use thorough reasoning for analyzing situations and making decisions.
Oral/Written Communication– the ability to articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively through speech and writings.
Teamwork/Collaboration– the ability to work collaboratively with peers, colleagues, and others who represent diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Digital Technology– the ability to use technology efficiently to accomplish tasks and solve problems in an ethical manner.
Leadership– the ability to help others develop and use their strengths for achievement of a common goal(s).
Professional/Work Ethic– the demonstration of effective and desirable work habits and behaviors.
Career Management– the ability to articulate personal skills, knowledge, experiences, strengths, etc. related to career goals.
Global/Intercultural Fluency– the ability to demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures.
In addition, we have revitalized the general education curriculum, embedded experiential learning and co-curricular activities, and added minors and certificates into curricula.
INTEGRATED CO-CURRICULAR ENGAGEMENT
Experiential learning activities are structured to coordinate activities and create a culture that fosters intentional co-curricular engagement. Experiential learning is a process in which students acquire knowledge and skills based on real-life situations outside of the typical academic environment. Student learning outcomes are based on The Liberal Education and America’s Promise (LEAP) outcomes for each experiential learning activity.
Experiential Learning activities include the following:
- Internships/Co-Operative Education
- Student Leadership
- Undergraduate Research
- Study Abroad
- Service Learning
Also, a co-curricular transcript has been created to record students’ participation in experiential learning activities as well as other co-curricular activities (such as conference presentations, performances, recitals, community service, etc.).