University-Wide Learning Objectives

University-Wide Learning Objectives

Pacific's approach to teaching gives attention to the whole-person and emphasizes experiential and active forms of learning. The following are Pacific's university-wide learning objectives adopted in 2009 and subject to review and revision through institutional assessment:

• Major Field Competence
• Critical and Creative Thinking
• Communication
• Collaboration and Leadership
• Intercultural and Global Perspectives
• Ethical Reasoning
• Sustainability

The primary purpose of the objectives is to support teaching and learning at all three campuses of the University. These objectives and accompanying outcomes give specific meaning to the educational goals stated in the University's Mission and strategic plans.

Pacific's commitment to a common set of learning objectives will:

• Give students, faculty, administration and staff a clear and concise understanding of the essential learning goals of a Pacific education;
• Create a more coherent educational experience for students as schools and divisions align with these objectives;
• Enable Pacific to assess outcomes at the university-level in order to continuously improve teaching and learning. 

It is the responsibility of each School and Division to assess how these objectives are being addressed in their programs. Schools and Divisions are likely to have additional learning goals beyond the university-wide objectives stated here. At the undergraduate level, it is important to recognize that programs and experiences outside of the School or specific program (such as the General Education program and Student Life programming) will address many of the objectives. Each objective is supported by a set of outcome statements as indicated below. The outcomes are provided to illustrate the meanings of the objectives at Pacific and can be adjusted to meet the goals established within each School and Division.

Objectives and Outcomes

 Major Field Competence

1. Articulate the essential concepts and methodologies in a major field of study or work.
2. Demonstrate competence in a major field of study as defined by that program's outcomes or competencies.

Critical & Creative Thinking

1. Apply reasoning and evidence to judge and support claims.
2. Effectively analyze, integrate, and evaluate information.
3. Construct well-reasoned arguments and solutions.
4. Create novel approaches in a variety of contexts.

Communication

1. Prepare and deliver effective forms of communication.
2. Adapt communication style to the occasion, task, and audience.
3. Select and use appropriate communication technologies.

Collaboration & Leadership

1. Work cooperatively with others toward a common goal.
2. Demonstrate effective social interaction skills appropriate to the occasion, task, and audience.
3. Influence others ethically toward achievement of a common goal to effect positive change.
4. Demonstrate accountability for one's decisions and actions.

Intercultural and Global Perspectives

1. Articulate the broad set of influences that has shaped one's personal identity.
2. Effectively and appropriately interact in a variety of cultural contexts.
3. Explain the interdependence of nations and peoples.
4. Engage in the civic life of the local, national, and global community.

Ethical Reasoning

1. Articulate one's own ethical beliefs and their origins.
2. Identify ethical issues in personal, professional, and civic life.
3. Evaluate assumptions and implications of different ethical perspectives.
4. Defend ethical positions with reason and consider alternative courses of action.

Sustainability

1. Identify the interconnectedness between humans and their natural environment.
2. Evaluate the social, economic, and environmental consequences of individual and group actions.
3. Engage in responsible environmental action.