CRITICAL THINKING
The following are the diversity objectives adopted by Tarleton State University.
Critical Thinking/Problem Solving – the application of both qualitative and quantitative skills
analytically and creatively to subject matter in order to evaluate arguments and to construct
alternative strategies (CT)
1. Synthesize and integrate information is the process of critical thinking
2. Apply a problem solving process (i.e.; scientific process) to an identified situation
3. Support results with evidence or logical argument
For learning outcomes successfully measured, faculty committee will determine that 70% or
more of the learning outcomes were achieved at, or above, the level set by the department.
Sixty-two measures were determined to be applicable to critical thinking. Twenty measures
used appropriate means of measurement and indicated that the student learning outcomes
were fully achieved. Fifteen measures used appropriate means of measurement, but the
student learning outcomes were not met. Twenty-seven measures used inappropriate or
incomplete means of measurement as determined by the faculty committee.
DIVERSITY
The following are the diversity objectives adopted by Tarleton State University.
Diversity – Develop broad and multiple perspectives on the individual relationship to the larger
society and world in which he or she lives and demonstrate responsibility for living in a culturally
and ethnically diversified world. (D)
1. Communicate tolerance and appreciation of different cultures and viewpoints
2. Examine the evolution/process of U S policy in the world relating to issues of environment,
human rights, and appreciation of cultural differences
3. Recognize the role of diversity in a civilized society
For learning outcomes successfully measured, faculty committee will determine that 70% or
more of the learning outcomes were achieved at, or above, the levels established by academic
departments.
Twenty-three courses in the general education curriculum indicated student learning
outcomes related to diversity. Eleven (48%) of the courses used appropriate means of
measurement that indicated that the student learning outcomes were fully achieved. Six (26%)
of the courses used appropriate means of measurement, but the student learning outcomes
were not met. Eight (35%) used inappropriate or incomplete means of measurement as
determined by the faculty committee.
PHIL201
SOC303
ART131
MUSC213
MUSC235
FA401
GEOL108
HIST101
GEOG120
CHEM102
HIST201
ENGL240
ART331
MUSC327
ARCH201
SOC101
SOC103
THEA238
THEA105
ENGL210
POLS202
IT340
CHEM105
1
1
1
1
1
1
1 (D3)
1,2
1
1 (D2)
1,2
2 (D3), 4 (D1)
2 (D3)
2
2
3
4 (D1,2,3)
4 (D3), 2 (D3)
4 (D3)
4
4
5
5
ARCH201: To identify and understand differences and commonalties within diverse cultures.
Students identify how cultures have evolved and express appreciation of world cultures. 51-69%
average
PHIL201: Students comprehend the objective nature of logical analysis across cultural and
sociological lines. Lecture, reading, student interaction, problem solving exercises, with the goal
to conveying that critical thinking skills in educated citizens is impossible without some facility
with logical methods. Met standards.
MUSC325: To demonstrate knowledge of the influence of literature, philosophy, and/or the arts
on intercultural experiences. Students identify jazz music from a variety of cultures. 78%
TECHNOLOGY
The following are the technology objectives adopted by Tarleton State University.
Technology- demonstrate basic technology literacy skills in word-processing, presentation,
computation and spread sheet, communication, and library research data bases.
1. Use and apply word processing, presentation and spreadsheet software in various contexts.
2. Gather research from credible sources electronically.
3. Use web-based technologies to communicate effectively.
4. Use technology and information ethically and legally.
For those outcomes that are measured, the committee will determine that 70% met the targeted
level of achievement.
Nine courses reported student learning outcomes related to technology literacy skills. The
faculty committee determined that 7 of these courses used appropriate means of measurement,
and student learning outcomes were achieved in three of these courses.
2010-2011 outcomes
SOC105
5
ART331
3
ENGL 240
2
ENGL 210
2
PHYS242
2
MATH107
2
MUS325
1
CHEM102
1
GEOL108
1
GEOL 108: To understand and apply method and appropriate technology to the study of natural
sciences.
Mean score of 75% of better on relevant representative lecture exam questions and laboratory
exercises. Mean score on these labs (plate tectonics, volcanic products, and weather
forecasting): 84.2%
CHEM 102: To demonstrate basic technology literacy skills in word-processing, presentation,
computation and spread sheet; communication, and library research data base.
Explaining how Galileo’s thermo-meter works in written paper. 70%.
Data base searching for sources of chemistry demonstrations. 90%
Laboratory Exercises involving graphing. 90%.
MUSC325: To demonstrate basic technology literacy skills in word processing, presentation,
computation and spreadsheet; communication, and library research data base
Projects including a facebook fanpage, you tube performance, research paper, and movies. 75%
of students will successfully utilize PowerPoint in their oral presentation. 100% of students
successfully utilized you tube, facebook, as well as library database skills in their projects
WRITING
The following are the communication objectives adopted by Tarleton State University.
Communication – the ability to communicate both orally and in writing in clear, coherent and
persuasive language appropriate to purpose, occasion, and audience and the ability to analyze and
interpret various forms of communication tools (C)
1.
2.
3.
4.
Demonstrate effective audience centered communication skills
Effectively articulate a reasoned position orally and in writing
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the tools of language
Analyze, interpret a variety of material, integrate information, and data using a variety of
communication tools including graphical representations and technology
For learning outcomes successfully measured, faculty committee will determine that 70% or
more of learning outcomes were achieved at, or above, the level set by the Department of
English and Languages.
Ten courses reported student learning outcomes related to written communication. The
faculty committee determined that 9 of these courses used appropriate means of measurement,
and student learning outcomes were achieved in five (50%) of these courses.
Written Communication
FA101
1
FA401
1 (2 measures)
MUSC327
1
SOC303
1 (3 measures)
THEA208
1
ENGL210
2 (3 measures)
ENGL240
2 (3 measures)
ENGL111
2 (3 measures)
ENGL112
2 (3 measures), 1 (2 measures)
POLS202
5
ENGL111: To understand and demonstrate writing and speaking processes through invention,
organization, drafting, revision, editing, and presentation Skills germane to outcomes evident
in the essays and a final written examination. 70%
SOC303: Student paper requiring a sociological analysis detailing the social, political, economic,
and cultural interactions of a particular racial or ethnic group with the larger culture. 85%
MUSC327: To articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.
Writing guidelines developed by department faculty. 90%
ORAL COMMUNICATION
The following are the communication objectives adopted by Tarleton State University.
Communication – the ability to communicate both orally and in writing in clear, coherent and
persuasive language appropriate to purpose, occasion, and audience and the ability to analyze and
interpret various forms of communication tools (C)
1.
2.
3.
4.
Demonstrate effective audience centered communication skills
Effectively articulate a reasoned position orally and in writing
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the tools of language
Analyze, interpret a variety of material, integrate information, and data using a variety of
communication tools including graphical representations and technology
For learning outcomes successfully measured, faculty committee will determine that 70% or
more of learning outcomes were achieved at, or above, the level set by the Department of
English and Languages.
Four courses reported student learning outcomes related to oral communication. The faculty
committee determined that 3 of these courses used appropriate means of measurement, and
student learning outcomes were achieved in these three courses.
Speech
GEOL107
FA401
GEOG 120
GEOG201
1
1
1, 2
5 (2 measures)
GEOL107: To demonstrate basic technology literacy skills in word-processing, presentation,
computation and spread sheet; communication, and library research data base. Research,
organize, deliver talk on environmental topic. 74%
FA101: To respond critically to works in the arts and humanities. Students analyze
contemporary art and music and theatrical performances. 90% of students (26 of 29) wrote a
reaction paper that successfully analyzed contemporary art, as well as musical and theatre
performances.