Academic Policies

University learning outcomes

BGSU's programs of study and the university environment in which they are offered are designed to build six capabilities. By the time of graduation, BGSU students are expected to investigate, connect, write, present, participate and lead proficiently. Each unit of the University develops learning outcomes specific to that major or program.

BGSU graduates are critical and constructive thinkers, as shown by proficiency in investigating and in making connections.

• To Investigate (Latin, investigatus, from in- + vestigium, footprint, track): to observe or study by close examination and systematic inquiry. "Investigate" calls attention to systematic processes of exploring issues, collecting and analyzing evidence, and making informed judgments.
  
• To Connect (Middle English, from Latin conectere, from com- + nectere, to bind): to place or establish in relationship. "Connecting" is the essence of creative problem solving, shown in synthesizing knowledge within and across courses, integrating theory and practice, linking academic and life experiences, and relating one's self and culture to diverse cultures within the U.S. and globally.
  

BGSU graduates communicate effectively, as shown by proficiency in writing and in making presentations.

• To Write (Middle English, from Old English writan, to scratch, draw, inscribe): to be the author, to compose. "Writing" requires fluency not only in English or another language, but often also in other symbol systems, such as logical, mathematical, visual, spatial, musical or electronic.
  
• To Present (Middle English, from Latin praesentare, to be before): to make a presentation. "Present" is the oral counterpart of "write," requiring the same fluencies, and in addition fluency with bodily-kinesthetic symbols.
  

Through personal character and values, BGSU graduates demonstrate effective social interaction, as shown by proficiency in participating and leading.

• To Participate (Latin, participare, to take): to have a part or share in something. "Participating" is a matter of active engagement, rather than passive observation, and is shown through working effectively in diverse groups and teams, as well as through cooperation and respect for others.
  
• To Lead (Middle English, leden, from Old English, laeden, to go): to guide or influence a group to achieve goals. "Leading" does not require formal authority or power, but rather is a matter of influence, integrity, spirit and respect.
  

The University learning outcomes are a component of both the general education curriculum and the various majors, and thus describe the basis for continuity and coherence in the curriculum as a whole.

The University embraces five core values:

• Respect for one another
  
• Cooperation
  
• Intellectual and spiritual growth
  
• Creative imaginings
  
• Pride in a job well done
  

These values are evident in the University Learning Outcomes. Students show the development of their own values through increasing proficiency in each of the University Learning Outcomes. For example, making connections often involves creative imaginings; cooperation and respect are critical for effective social interaction; and intellectual and spiritual growth become evident through the development of one's thinking and communication skills, just as they are shown in one's personal character. Proficient performance as a learner is a basis for pride in a job well done.

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