Cultivating Student Excellence
A Framework for Student Learning Outcomes
During a time of increased accountability in higher education, colleges and universities nationwide are being asked to detail specific learning expectations of their students and to provide evidence to demonstrate that those learning outcomes are being met. Institutions of higher education must now report enrollment and graduation rates and document student learning from both formal and informal learning environments during students’ cumulative university experiences. Student learning outcomes should specify both what students know and the cognitive and affective changes in student development resulting from their college experiences. Student affairs professionals have a particular responsibility for ensuring that our campus is a true learning community committed to providing “transformative” educational experiences for all students. Our professional associations, the National Association for Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), encourage student affairs educators to lead collaborative institutional efforts to assess overall student learning and to demonstrate the role of diverse curricular and co-curricular experiences in achieving comprehensive institutional learning outcomes.
To this end, the Clemson University Division of Student Affairs has adopted four learning outcomes.
Self-Knowledge: Identifying and articulating various aspects that contribute to one’s identity; Exhibiting an accurate sense of self
This outcome is visible through:
- Enhanced Self-Esteem
- Realistic Self-Appraisal
- Clarified Values
- Independence
- Spiritual Awareness
- Personal, Educational and Career Goals
Leadership and Communication: Developing mutually beneficial relationships through communication and cooperation with others; Applying influence and collaboration effectively to achieve group goals; Living and leading with integrity according to a set of established ethical principles
This outcome is visible through:
- Effective Communication
- Leadership Development
- Meaningful Interpersonal Relationships
- Collaboration
Social Responsibility: Understanding and participating in the development, maintenance and/or orderly change of community, social and legal standards or norms; Appropriately challenging the unfair, unjust or uncivil behavior of other individuals or groups; Participating in relevant governance systems and in service/volunteer activities; Valuing people different from oneself
This outcome is visible through:
- Appreciating Diversity
- Environmental Stewardship
- Global Interdependence and Citizenship
- Clemson Core Values
Life Skills Application: Applying the comprehensive set of skills and knowledge gained from one’s Clemson education in effectively planning one’s everyday and future activities while solving personal and community-related problems in ever-changing environments; Adaptability and practical application of knowledge for life success of self and others
This outcome is visible through:
- Safe and Responsible Decisions
- Healthy Behaviors
- Career Development
- Satisfying and Productive Lifestyle
