MIAMI, Oct. 9, 2007 – The nation’s largest institution of higher education, Miami Dade College (MDC) is again blazing a trail, one that will help ensure students are truly equipped for success in today’s global marketplace. Traditionally, a student majoring in biology, for example, would learn about science and natural systems, while an art major would focus on creative expression and an engineering or computer science major would focus primarily on technology. Now, in addition to their academic specialization, these students will be prepared to communicate effectively; to apply quantitative skills; to solve problems using creative and critical thinking; to reason scientifically; to research and evaluate information; to gain global, cultural, and historical perspectives; to understand personal, civic, and social responsibilities; to appreciate creativity and aesthetics; to describe the function of natural systems; and to recognize the environmental impact of humans. In short, the MDC graduate will be prepared for success and life-long learning. This far-reaching project will touch students the minute they enroll and will continue to be part of their experiences through the completion of their degree.
To this important end, several key stakeholders will participate in a Covenant Signing Ceremony on Friday, October 19, at 10:30 a.m., at Miami Dade College’s historic Freedom Tower, located at 600 Biscayne Boulevard. Signatories will include leadership from the faculty and student body and Mr. Barry Johnson, president of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, in representation of the business community. Other witnesses will include United States Under Secretary of Education Sara Martinez Tucker, MDC District Board of Trustees Chair Helen Aguirre Ferré, MDC President Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón and Dr. Norma Martin Goonen, MDC Provost for Academic and Student Affairs.
“That’s the thrust of the MDC’s Learning Outcomes. During the course of their studies, students will combine curricular-and cocurricular learning and develop a broad range of skills that can be applied in all facets of their education, careers and lives,” said Dr. Padrón.
In addition to establishing expectations for their specific courses, faculty members within the same discipline will meet to discuss the broader Learning Outcomes that will also be taught in that course – and, annually, the Learning Outcomes assessment team will measure overall success.
“We’re making what people already do in their classes more intentional so that it can be more readily measured and enhanced, and so that students will be aware of what they are learning,” added Dr. Norma Martin Goonen, Provost for Academic and Student Affairs who supported the faculty in the development of the Learning Outcomes and the plan to weave them into the student experience. Her team also consulted with current students, the business community, alumni and other stakeholders to determine the skills and abilities essential to student learning and success.
MDC is already considered a leader in providing access and assuring affordability. An active member of Association of American Colleges & Universities, the College has now established this initiative to assure accountability and to demonstrate student success.
Miami Dade College Learning Outcomes
1. Communicate effectively using listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
2. Use quantitative analytical skills to evaluate and process numerical data.
3. Solve problems using critical and creative thinking and scientific reasoning.
4. Formulate strategies to locate, evaluate and apply information.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of diverse cultures, including global and historical perspectives.
6. Create strategies that can be used to fulfill personal, civic and social responsibilities.
7. Demonstrate knowledge of ethical thinking and its application to issues in society.
8. Use computer and emerging technologies effectively.
9. Demonstrate an appreciation for aesthetics and creative activities.
10. Describe how natural systems function and recognize the impact of humans on the environment.
For more information on the Learning Outcomes initiative, please call:
Dr. Pamela Menke, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs, 305-237-3037
Media contacts: Juan C. Mendieta, MDC director of communications, 305-237-7611, jmendiet@mdc.edu or Beverly C. Rodrigues, MDC director of media relations, 305-237-3949, brodrigu@mdc.edu. Other MDC news releases are available on the web at <www.mdc.edu>.