Polytechnic Learning Outcomes and Supportive Concepts

UW-Stout’s Polytechnic Learning Outcomes and Supportive Concepts

 
In September, 2009, the University of Wisconsin–Stout Applied Research Center reported results of focus group participation on the topic of Polytechnic Learning Outcomes.  The report describes themes identified and feedback from focus group participants.  The five Learning Outcomes and supportive concepts listed below were presented in the report and endorsed by the Faculty Senate.  (For the full report, click here.)


  1. Critical and Creative Thinking Skills/Intellectual and Practical Skills, including:
    • Inquiry, analysis and problem solving
    • Higher order qualitative and quantitative reasoning; research
    • Technology applications for research and project development

  2. Effective Communication Skills, including:
    • Listening, speaking, reading, writing and information literacy
    • Effective communication appropriate to each discipline

  3. Knowledge of Human Cultures and the Physical and Natural World, including:
    • Study of sciences, math, social sciences, humanities, histories, languages and the arts
    • Global and cultural awareness; ability to interact and work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures
    • Collaborative skills; ability to lead or contribute support to those who lead
    • Ability to empathize and understand those who are different from themselves

  4. Integrative Learning, including:
    • Synthesis and advanced accomplishment across general and specialized studies
    • Undergraduate and graduate research opportunities; application of knowledge and skills for solving complex problems
    • Undergraduate and graduate experiential opportunities; internships, Study Abroad education, service-learning options, etc.
    • The ability to understand and solve problems from multiple perspectives and disciplines

  5. Individual, Social and Environmental Responsibility, including:
    • Civic Knowledge
    • Local and global engagement
    • Ethical reasoning
    • Skills for lifelong learning