University Learning Outcomes

Cocurricular Learning Outcomes

The cocurriculum at Penn State includes both formal and informal out-of-class learning opportunities. These include involvement with clubs and organizations, workshops, lectures, internships, co-ops, living-learning communities, intramural and recreation programs, undergraduate research opportunities, interactions with faculty and other students, service learning, academic and career advising, cultural events and study abroad.

Knowledge Acquisition/Application

Students will:

• Develop an understanding of knowledge from a range of disciplines/areas
• Demonstrate the ability to integrate and apply ideas and themes across the curriculum and cocurriculum.

Cognitive Competency

Students will:

• Acquire learning skills to assist in their academic success
• Develop critical and reflective thinking abilities
• Apply effective reasoning skills

Life Skills and Self-Knowledge

Students will:

• Determine their career interests
• Acquire career management skills
• Develop the ability to manage and resolve interpersonal conflicts
• Cultivate a propensity for lifelong learning
• Develop personal health, fitness, wellness and leisure habits and identify health risks
• Improve self-understanding and awareness by developing an integrated personal identity (including sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, culture and spiritual)
• Exhibit responsible decision-making and personal accountability

Personal Integrity and Values

Students will:

• Acquire ethical reasoning skills
• Improve their ability to manage their emotions effectively
• Develop a sense of personal integrity and clarify their personal values
• Appreciate creative expression and aesthetics
• Demonstrate compassion and empathy for others

Intercultural Development

Students will:

• Possess multicultural awareness and knowledge
• Develop sensitivity to and appreciation of human differences
• Exhibit the ability to work effectively with those different from themselves
• Demonstrate a commitment to social justice

Leadership and Active Citizenship

Students will:

• Communicate effectively with others both verbally and in writing
• Demonstrate an understanding of group dynamics and effective teamwork
• Understand leadership theory and styles
• Identify their own leadership style when working with others
• Develop a range of leadership skills and abilities such as effectively leading change, resolving conflict, and motivating others
• Develop a deep understanding of sustainability (locally, nationally, globally) and be prepared to lead others in the implementation of strategies for sustainable resource use on campus and in their communities
• Assume a sense of civic responsibility and a commitment to public life

Approved by the Pennsylvania State University Coordinating Committee on University Assessment, May 2006.