URI 101 Lesson Plan: Academic Maps
Bring:
 Projector/laptop
 Able to show website
Presentation: Introduction to maps
Distribute maps for various majors in which student have indicated interest
We use maps just as you would for getting to any destination – maps are a guided pathway, and
curriculum maps provide the pathway to success – from admission to graduation.
An academic map is a term by term sequence of courses required to complete the degree in
four years. This helps students to understand how degree requirements can be translated
into a term-by-term registration/advising plan.
Maps provide clear direction for completing degree requirements in the most efficient and
effective way
Milestones in each map make all policies about requirements known, right from the start
General education requirements
Pre-requisites for all classes
GPA requirements (in specific classes, overall)
Semester-by-semester progression
Events, forms, applications, that must be completed to stay on track
Maps help both students and URI to be accountable for progress to graduation
Maps help students remember to include other experiences like study away and internships to
better prepare graduates for careers
Maps do not take the place of advisors but together, students and advisors can chart the pathway to
success.
Always be sure your degree audit and map are in sync – show students degree audit functions
Goal is to not only choose a major, but to choose the “right” major that fits your personality, skill set,
interests, values, and career dreams.
Meta-majors – these are categories of majors that share fundamental areas of study. Exploring these
categories may help to find the best fit.
Milestones are very important. They are more than a checklist. Milestones will help you see if you
are on track for degree completion or if you need to find a different pathway. Review all milestones
related to major
What happens if I miss milestones? What are alternative pathways for getting back on track?
Take the time to explore all the links embedded in the maps: course options, career exploration,
ONET, internships in the major, etc. for all maps in which you are interested.
Group work
- Have students work in small groups to explore maps of majors of interest
- Compare notes for how milestones may impact progress in each degree program
- Have each group report out what they have learned
Begin to connect majors to Learning Styles (minutes)